Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Center of Excellence
The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Clinic at the Fixel Institute in Gainesville provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care designed to support every aspect of life affected by ALS. Our team is dedicated to helping patients, families, and caregivers manage the challenges of this complex disease through expert treatment, compassionate support, and access to the latest research.
About the center
Mission Statement: Empower patients, families, and caregivers through compassionate care, innovative treatments, and unwavering support. We are dedicated to enhancing quality of life, preserving dignity, and fostering hope — every step of the journey. By combining clinical excellence with empathy and collaboration, we strive to make a meaningful difference for those living with ALS.
Key areas of focus include:
- Improving quality of life: Providing personalized care plans, assistive technologies, and supportive therapies to help patients maintain independence and wellbeing.
- Pharmacologic therapies: Offering access to the latest FDA-approved medications and participation in cutting-edge clinical trials aimed at slowing disease progression and managing symptoms effectively.
ALS Team Receiving Center of Excellence Designation
Meet the team
Clinical Director / Chief of Neuromuscular Division
James Wymer, MD, PhD
Associate Clinical Director / Nurse Practitioner
Whitney McNeely, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Rehab Manager
Lisa Warren, MHS, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Elizabeth Michael, MOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapist
Rachael Dorsey, MOT, OTR/L
Physical Therapist
Catherine Partridge, PT, DPT, MP
Physical Therapist
Taylor Dampier, PT, DPT
Speech Language Pathologist
Elizabeth Tortolini, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist
Nicole Herndon, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech Language Pathologist / Assistive Communication Devices
Jaime Maile, MA, CCC-SLP
Clinical Dietitian
Emily Truscott MS, RD, LD
Genetic Counselor
Lee Kugelmann, MMSc, CGC
Clinical Research Coordinator
Jennifer Steshyn, MABMH, CCRP
Clinical Coordinator
Desire Duarte
Resources
Find support and resources for people living with ALS and their families, including programs offered by the ALS Association and support groups, exercise, and art programs supported by the Fixel Institute.
Support Groups
Explore the support groups offered or supported by the Fixel Institute, including exercise and art programs, as well as other helpful resources.
The ALS Association
Learn more about the ALS Association and the support, resources, and programs they offer for people living with ALS and their families.
Clinical Trials
Find information on ongoing ALS clinical trials and opportunities for participation.
News
Explore the latest Fixel research and news on ALS:
By: Mallory Bachmann The Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Clinic at the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF Health has…
By: Grace Huff This post is dedicated to ALS Awareness Month, a time to honor the strength of those living with ALS and to recognize the…
At the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, we believe in the power of movement, community, and joy, and we’re excited to invite you…
