By: Grace Huff
Head Games brought energy and purpose to Santa Monica on June 7, as guests gathered to compete, connect, and support a meaningful cause hosted by Taryn Fixel. Described as “Camp Day Color War for grown-ups,” the day was filled with nostalgic joy, team games, great food, amazing auction items, and a whole lot of competitive spirit.
Emceed by the hilarious comedians and actors Matt Walsh (Veep) and Peter Hulne (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Anchorman), Head Games was more than just fun and games, it had a powerful purpose.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of everyone who participated, Head Games raised $50,000 in support of the Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at the University of Florida. The funds raised will support the continued growth of counseling services at the Institute, including social work, nutrition, and genetic counseling, ensuring comprehensive, compassionate care for every patient.
The Fixel Institute sees over 35,000 patients each year and runs more than 50 clinical trials to combat Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, ALS, dystonia, traumatic brain injury, and related conditions. What sets the Institute apart is its innovative, compassionate “one-stop” care model, where patients can see every necessary specialist and receive critical testing in just a day or two, rather than spending months waiting for disconnected appointments.
For Taryn Fixel, the event’s host, this mission is deeply personal. The Institute is named after her father, Norman Fixel, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 42 and has fought the disease for over 30 years. “That’s why I created Head Games: to prove that joy, challenge, fun, and brain health can- and should- exist in the same space,” she said.
To everyone who showed up, played hard, donated generously, and made Head Games a smashing success, the Institute thanks you.
Want to learn more about the Fixel Institute and how you can help? Read about the Institute’s mission here.