STAFF BIOS
ASHTON WRAY
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2015
“I want to show as many individuals with paralysis that they still have a purpose, they still have something to strive for, and they can do more than they believe.”
Ashton became a member of The Perfect Step team in 2014, soon after obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Integrative Physiology from the University of Colorado, Boulder. As a Level III TPS Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist and Educator, Ashton is one of the leaders of the TPS staff at many different levels. With more than seven years of experience in the field and more than 10,000+ hours of hands-on experience, she is now qualified to educate other staff members and is taking her outside-the-box approach and style to the drawing board, where she can now educate others who are up-and-coming in the field. Her knowledge and skill set are not only rooted in her education but also in the ongoing certifications that she has received in CPR, Total Body Board, Restorative Therapies Advanced FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation) certification, Restorative Therapies Wide Pulse certification, Interactive Metronome, and Hypervolt Movement Enhancement Certified. She was committed to the field of paralysis recovery long before her tenure at TPS, as her father is a recovering C-5 quadriplegic who has overcome his injury and, 30 years later, is walking and living a near able-bodied life.
Ashton’s aspirations within the field reside in wanting to implement different TPS facilities throughout the country, giving her the opportunity to spread TPS’s methodologies to other specialists wanting to learn about the paralysis recovery field. If she’s not already an advocate for the facility, then the fact that she is on her pursuit to show insurance companies that what TPS is doing is worth them jumping on board to pay for therapy should give you a clear indication of where her heart is at. Ashton is always one to practice what she preaches, so you might find her lifting weights, cheering for her beloved Colorado Buffaloes, Broncos, or Angels teams. She does this while spending time with family and staying strong in her Jewish faith.
Nicole Leasher
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
DIRECTOR OF CLIENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2016
“I love my job and the people I work with and I hope that shines through every time I step into the building.”
Nicole Pires serves as the Assistant Director of Operations and Director of Client and Community Engagement at The Perfect Step. Since joining the team in 2016, she has become a trusted leader known for her compassion, organization, and ability to connect deeply with both clients and staff. Nicole is also a Level IV Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist with over a decade of experience in neurological recovery.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Cal State Monterey Bay and brings extensive hands-on expertise in working with individuals affected by spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and Parkinson’s disease. Her training philosophy centers on positivity, consistency, and client empowerment, helping individuals break through barriers and rediscover what is possible.
In her operational role, Nicole supports the implementation of systems that keep the facility running smoothly and effectively. As Director of Client and Community Engagement, she uses her natural charisma, empathy, and leadership to strengthen community partnerships and build meaningful client relationships. She brings heart to every initiative, creating an environment rooted in hope, trust, and shared progress.
Respected by her peers and beloved by clients, Nicole leads by example with grace, humility, and a steady presence. Her ability to motivate others and bring out the best in those around her makes her a cornerstone of the TPS team.
Outside of work, Nicole enjoys spending time at the river, attending concerts, playing softball, bowling, and watching sports. She brings joy, energy, and care into everything she does, both professionally and personally.
Nathan Lozano
Head of Digital Content Development
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2017
“I want to help others succeed by meeting their short and long-term goals. Along with their goals, I want to lead clients to a healthy lifestyle throughout their recovery.”
Nathan Lozano is a Level IV Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist and Head of Educational Content Development at The Perfect Step. Since joining the team in 2017, Nathan has become a driving force in both client care and staff development, blending clinical expertise with a strong background in education to elevate the standard of neurological recovery.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Exercise Science from Azusa Pacific University and a Master of Science in Kinesiology from A.T. Still University. With experience as a physical therapy aide across multiple rehabilitation clinics, Nathan brings a well-rounded and thoughtful approach to therapeutic programming. After becoming a Specialist in 2018, he steadily advanced through TPS’s internal certification system and now leads efforts to design and implement continued education for staff.
In his current role, Nathan develops training modules, shapes internal certifications, and supports the professional growth of the TPS team. His goal is to ensure consistent, high-quality care through structured learning and curriculum development rooted in real-world application.
Known for his humility, steady leadership, and passion for lifelong learning, Nathan is deeply committed to the long-term vision of TPS. He sees education not just as a tool, but as a pathway to innovation, impact, and sustainability in the field of paralysis recovery.
Outside the facility, Nathan enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, spending time with loved ones, and unwinding with a good romantic comedy. He brings the same presence, balance, and care to his personal life that he brings to his work—helping others grow, one step at a time.
Jason Smith
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2019
“I would love to continue to instruct other trainers throughout the world so they could help people with paralysis that can’t relocate to the Claremont area.”
Jason joined The Perfect Step paralysis recovery team at the Claremont Club in 2019. Jason has an educational background from Cal State University Long Beach where he received his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. In addition to his educational background, Jason brings a wealth of knowledge and a great skill set to The Perfect Step team. Jason is certified in CPR/AED as well as in Hypervolt Movement Enhancement.
Jason has more than 17 years of experience in the field of paralysis recovery, as a previous Specialist at Project Walk in Carlsbad, California, and has more than 20,000 hours of hands-on experience to go with it. Jason is one of the few individuals in the world who had the great opportunity to receive his training under Ted Dardzinski, who is regarded as the pioneer in nervous system recruitment and in reorganizing/reactivating the nervous system. “I started working in the neurological disorder field at the original Project Walk in 2007. I had the privilege to learn from the founder of Project Walk, Ted Dardzinski. What an eye-opening experience it has been. We started primarily working with spinal cord injuries but branched out into helping others with different neurological disorders such as victims of stroke and traumatic brain injury to name a couple. In addition to training clients, I have also taught and mentored other Specialists on how to train their clients. Some trainers have come from across the world to learn,” said Jason.
What came of that experience was a philosophy of his own that Jason developed. Jason believes that the Specialist must be an extension of the client’s nervous system to achieve the best results possible. “These conditions are neurological and must be treated as such. Communication from the client’s brain to the body and back is the most important aspect in recovery.” Jason has aspirations to help as many clients achieve their goals as possible and to help Specialists around him be the best that they can be. When Jason is not at TPS you can find him in the weight room, lifting weights, or watching anything baseball. “I feel lucky to be here, as this place is a special place.”
Kristen Lockett
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2013
“My greatest passion is helping people, and as long as I can do that here or in any other career, I will be happy.”
Kristen Lockett has been a part of The Perfect Step team since 2013 after she graduated from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a concentration in Lifetime Fitness. Kristen is presently a Level III TPS Specialist and has over 10,000+ hours of hands-on experience in the field to accompany her decade-plus tenure with the company. Kristen has other certifications in Long Term Care Nursing Assistant and Acute Care Nursing Assistant, American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers, American Red Cross Lifeguard, First Aid, CPR/AED, Total Body Board, Hypervolt Movement Enhancement Certified, and Interactive Metronome. Kristen has worked in the paralysis recovery field for over four years and has worked her way up in the ranks at TPS, as she previously started as a Recovery Aide and eight months later was promoted to a Recovery Specialist. Kristen’s goal for her clients is to make them feel better physically and mentally than when they first came in. She likes to help her clients reach and maintain their goals inside and outside the facility.
Aside from wanting to work as a Paralysis Recovery Specialist as long as physically possible, Kristen wants to help her clients physically, emotionally, and mentally achieve their goals. Aside from her passion for TPS, Kristen loves to spend time with her husband and her 8-year-old stepson, who are her two best friends.
Kristen Sanchez
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2020
“I would like to create new modalities and bring in new ways of thinking to the team to always better our clients and help them live stronger, healthier, and happier.”
Kristen Sanchez joined The Perfect Step in 2019 and is currently a Level II Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist. Kristen received her education from the University of La Verne in 2019, with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, an emphasis in Health and Human Performance, and a minor in Psychology. Kristen also has her Master’s in Exercise Science from Cal Baptist University. In addition to this, Kristen has a certification in Hypervolt Movement Enhancement as well as Interactive Metronome.
Kristen does have previous experience in the field of physical therapy and paralysis recovery. She previously completed an internship at Team Physical Therapy in Rancho Cucamonga with more than 70 hours of hands-on experience, additionally, she obtained more than 40 hours of internship experience at TPS, starting in the spring of 2018. Kristen’s previous job experience includes coaching volleyball and working for the physical fitness/lifestyle brand giant, lululemon. With her previous knowledge, expertise, and experience, Kristen has already developed a philosophy towards training. “I believe that energy is both contagious and influential. I also believe that every day of training brings new challenges, personal growth, and a sense of determination that can help you move closer to the end goals and hit every milestone in between,” says Kristen.
Kristen’s aspirations within the field are to learn more and to constantly improve herself and those around her. Her hopes are to work her way up to eventually become a Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist at TPS. When Kristen is not in the building, she enjoys traveling, going to the beach, working out, and taking classes (yoga, spin, Pilates). To put it simply, she likes to do anything that keeps her active.
CODY NORMAN
Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant Since 2021
“I have a holistic approach towards training that accounts for as many variables as possible. Also, I believe that any individual can be helped in some way no matter what their condition is.”
Cody Norman joined The Perfect Step team as a Paralysis Recovery Assistant in 2021. Cody has an educational background rooted in a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from the University of La Verne and a Masters in Business Administration degree with an emphasis on Leadership and Management also from the University of La Verne.
Even though the field of paralysis recovery, from an employment standpoint, is new to Cody, his background and interests in the field are vast. Before his employment at TPS, Cody spent three years shadowing and gathering knowledge/expertise from the staff at TPS, while in college. Additionally, Cody has diversified his understanding of the human body with additional experience in the field through interning at physical therapy clinics and clinics for those with disabilities.
What’s more, Cody brings a scientific background into the building as somebody who served as a teacher’s aide for the physics department at the University of La Verne.
Lastly, Cody has a vision for identifying those with talent. He served as a baseball scout for an organization in Southern California, identifying those with competencies playing the game of baseball. Cody has taken his prior experience personally and professionally and manifested it into a philosophy on training. Cody has a holistic approach to training that accounts for as many variables as possible. He believes that any individual can be helped in some way to achieve better health metrics and well-being, regardless of what their condition is.
Cody is tremendously excited for his opportunity to be a part of The Perfect Step team and to not only help people but also be a part of what he considers is a great culture that TPS has created. If you were to find Cody outside the building you might find him doing yoga, playing baseball, hiking with his dog, or traveling.
Elmer Reynoso
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2023
“You today, me tomorrow.”
Elmer Reynoso joined The Perfect Step team as a Paralysis Recovery Assistant in July 2022. Since then Elmer has been promoted to Specialist. Elmer has a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology with a focus on Exercise Science. While Elmer has no prior experience in the paralysis recovery field, he has always had a passion for wanting to pursue a career path in the field of rehabilitation. This came about from early exposure to adapted physical therapy, where Elmer was involved with students with disabilities ranging from preschool to high school, assisting them in activities. It was a few other jobs prior that gave Elmer further leadership skills and team member orientation, that ultimately prepared him for this next step in his career at TPS.
Elmer has career aspirations to progress from an Assistant to a Specialist, thus he has already developed a philosophy towards how he would train clients. “I believe in having a holistic approach to training,” said Elmer. “Exercise is one of the most important tools that you can use to improve your life. Training deserves key consideration, attention to detail, and effort, both mentally and physically. It isn’t enough to just train but to strive to train in the safest, most effective, and most efficient manner possible. After all, Exercise is medicine.”
Elmer would like to take this mentality and continue to immerse himself in those around him as sources of knowledge and information. He would like to learn new methods and techniques that will allow him to be as versatile as possible given the opportunity to become a specialist someday in the future.
Elmer would like to make a difference by being the most efficient team player as possible and assisting those in need. He wants to make sure that the clients are receiving the highest quality of care so they can feel safe and comfortable at The Perfect Step. Elmer enjoys spending time with family, playing softball, and watching documentaries.
Dominique Morales
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2023
"A meaningful life is not about being rich, being popular, or being perfect. It is about being real, being humble, being able to share ourselves, and touching the lives of others."
Dominique Morales, a dedicated Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist, joined the TPS team in 2023, bringing with her a passion for health education and an unwavering commitment to fostering positivity and motivation in her clients.
Dominique graduated from California Baptist University with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health, specializing in Health Education and Promotion. Her academic background provides her with a solid foundation in promoting well-being and healthy living.
She holds certifications in TRX group fitness and Cycling, showcasing her dedication to a well-rounded approach to physical fitness. Additionally, she is a certified scuba diver, further highlighting her adventurous spirit.
While Dominique doesn't have direct experience in paralysis recovery, her background in health education and promotion makes her a valuable asset to the TPS team. During her time at California Baptist University, she taught group fitness classes, where she witnessed the transformative power of physical activity on individuals' confidence and well-being.
Dominique firmly believes that a positive mindset is pivotal for recovery. She understands that positivity fosters motivation and confidence, essential components for individuals striving to become stronger and healthier. Her approach centers around creating a supportive and encouraging environment.
Her aspiration within the field of paralysis recovery is to expand her knowledge and understanding of paralysis injuries and recovery methods. She aims to leverage this expertise in her future career in the medical field, where she can make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.
Dominique's goal is to make a difference within the field by creating a welcoming and nurturing environment at TPS. She wants every individual who walks through the doors to feel confident in their choice of embarking on their recovery journey. Her commitment to fostering positivity aligns perfectly with this aspiration.
Outside of work, Dominique enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, exploring new destinations through travel, and savoring diverse cuisines.
Dominique Morales brings her enthusiasm for health education, a positive mindset, and a genuine desire to help others to the TPS team. Her dedication to fostering a welcoming environment and promoting well-being makes her a valuable asset to the world of paralysis recovery.
ANDREA REYES
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2022
“I would like to make a difference in the field by making sure whoever walks into our building feels welcomed and comfortable.”
Andrea Reyes joined The Perfect Step team Iin February 2022 and currently serves in a multidimensional role as a Specialist and as a part of our administrative team.. Andrea has a Bachelor’s in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health Education. Andrea’s interest in the field of paralysis recovery developed when she was in college when she was working at the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities. It was there that she learned about many ways to help people succeed in their college careers. “We accommodated anything from physical to mental disabilities and we were happy to be a resource for them on campus.” What’s more is that her exposure to individuals living with disabilities came full circle when her brother, Kevin, sustained a spinal cord injury in 2021. It was then that Andrea became connected with TPS when her brother Kevin started working out at TPS shortly after his injury. Andrea has always been one to put forth her best effort to provide and support. Much of her past job experiences had been in an educational and public health setting. “My most memorable job was a grant-funded program called Gear Up that followed the class of 2020, where we as Educational Coaches helped them graduate high school and get accepted to college by providing tutoring and mentoring services.” Andrea was a part of this very program when she was in high school and it helped her, as she was a first-generation college student in her family. It was very fulfilling for her to give back to this program to students with similar backgrounds to hers. Andrea’s aspirations within the paralysis recovery field are to learn from the rest of the staff at TPS and apply that skill set to her future career path of nursing where she will be able to provide the best care possible to those in need. “I would like to make a difference in the field by making sure whoever walks into our building feels welcomed and comfortable.” Andrea aims to be able to answer any questions that clients and family members at TPS may have about their journey and to make their recovery process as smooth as possible so they can proceed on their road to living a happy, fulfilling, and independent life. Andrea’s other hobbies include working out, trying new coffee shops, hiking, traveling, and watching Netflix.
ALLY BOUTTÉ
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2023
“Progress develops over time and consistency is the key factor to seeing results towards goals. I believe anyone can be persistent and persevere.”
Ally Boutté is a certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist and a graduate of the University of La Verne, where she earned her degree in Kinesiology. With a strong academic foundation and a genuine passion for adaptive rehabilitation, Ally brings a thoughtful, client-centered approach to her work in neurological recovery. She is committed to helping individuals regain strength, function, and confidence as they navigate life after paralysis.
Ally’s understanding of human movement and physical adaptation allows her to tailor each session to the unique needs of her clients. She values the importance of building trust, setting meaningful goals, and creating a supportive environment where growth can happen physically, mentally, and emotionally. Her work is guided by the belief that healing is a collaborative process and that meaningful outcomes emerge when clients and specialists work in step with one another.
Prior to becoming a specialist, Ally worked with young athletes in performance-based clinics. That experience sharpened her ability to coach, communicate, and inspire others, while deepening her knowledge of biomechanics and strength development. These early insights continue to shape her approach in the recovery setting today.
Ally is also deeply interested in the integration of holistic and alternative treatments into the recovery process. Her long-term vision includes bridging traditional physical therapy with complementary practices that support the full spectrum of wellness and healing.
Beyond the clinic, Ally is passionate about staying active—running, hiking, and weightlifting—and she enjoys traveling and experiencing live music. She lives by the values of progress, consistency, and perseverance, which fuel both her personal growth and her dedication to those she serves.
ERIC VILLEGAS
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2024
“A step, no matter how big or small, is still a step forward and farther ahead than you were before.”
Eric Villegas is a Paralysis Recovery Assistant at The Perfect Step, where he brings energy, dedication, and a learner’s mindset to his work with clients. Currently in his final year at California State University, San Bernardino, Eric is completing his degree while continuing to grow in the field of paralysis recovery. He is CPR certified, holds a coaching license, and has completed over 80 hours of internships at two different physical therapy clinics.
Though new to the field of paralysis recovery, Eric draws from his experiences coaching U-15 club soccer and interning in physical therapy settings to bring structure, consistency, and motivation into every session. He believes that “consistency will always pay out” and applies this philosophy to both his own professional development and the progress of the clients he supports.
Eric’s long-term goal is to become a Physical Therapist specializing in the neurological field. His time at The Perfect Step has already reshaped his perspective, teaching him that no two injuries are alike and that recovery requires individualized, client-focused plans. His aspiration is not only to help clients see change, but to empower them to thrive beyond their limitations.
Outside of his work, Eric enjoys playing and watching soccer, visiting coffee shops, and spending quality time with his girlfriend. His favorite mantra reflects his patient and hopeful outlook: “A step, no matter how big or small, is still a step forward and farther ahead than you were before.”
ELVIS WEEKS
Certified Paralysis Recovery Specialist Since 2026
“The greatest wealth is health.” — Virgil
Elvis Weeks is a Specialist at The Perfect Step with a strong foundation in kinesiology, movement science, health, and fitness. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Movement Science from California State University San Marcos, where he gained hands-on experience through research and served as both a laboratory aide and teacher’s aide within the exercise science program. Following college, Elvis worked as a personal trainer, helping individuals pursue their health, wellness, and fitness goals. His background in personal training helped shape his belief that effective training begins with communication, trust, and a strong relationship between the client and specialist. He approaches each session as a collaborative process, encouraging clients to work toward meaningful goals while remaining equally committed to learning and growing alongside them. At The Perfect Step, Elvis is excited to expand his knowledge of paralysis recovery and neurological rehabilitation while continuing to develop his skills as a movement professional. He has a particular interest in research and hopes to further his education and understanding of human movement, health, fitness, and recovery. His goal is to make a difference one person at a time by continually improving his abilities, embracing new opportunities, and bringing energy and intentionality to the individuals he serves. Outside of The Perfect Step, Elvis enjoys working out, playing golf, watching baseball, and talking about sports. He describes himself as easygoing, open to new perspectives, and always ready for a good laugh, although his competitive side is never too far away.
Assistants
Christie Tomashek
Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant Since 2018
“I would like to be a part of a person’s progress. I would like to help people realize what they are capable of and see them be motivated to try to better themselves. I would like to make them realize that the impossible is possible. I would like to be a part of their motivation.”
Christie Tomashek joined the TPS team as a Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant in August 2018. Christie has an educational background in the field of Criminology from UC Irvine and previously went to nursing school at West Coast University. Christie’s ultimate goal is to be a nurse at a rehabilitation hospital, specializing in spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. This goal derived from Christie’s 3 ½ years of prior experience in a rehabilitation hospital setting where she was exposed to spinal cord injuries and brain injuries while working as a therapy aide at a Transitional Living Center. This career path is a far cry from where Christie once was immersed as a paralegal at a law firm but eventually found her niche in the healthcare field. Christie became fond of the field of rehabilitation and paralysis recovery after seeing the amazing progress that those individuals were capable of making, which inspired her to go into the field and help in any way that she could. Christie aims to make those people feel important and keep them on the right path to keep moving forward. Her 3 ½ years spent at Casa Colina, has motivated her to be strong, both physically and mentally as people are persevering before her eyes in tough situations. While Christie has maintained her strength throughout her journey and has been a huge source for many to lean on, Christie can enjoy time to herself, where she typically is outdoors, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, backpacking, and running. She also enjoys spending time with her husband (Chris) and child (Charles) and practicing jiu-jitsu.
PAUL KIM
Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant Since 2025
“My prayer is that when I die, all of hell rejoices that I am out of the fight.”
Paul Kim, known by many as Jin, brings both passion and purpose to his role as a Paralysis Recovery Assistant at The Perfect Step. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies from the University of La Verne in 2022 and holds certifications as a CPT and in CPR. While new to the field of paralysis recovery, Paul has a strong background in athletics and coaching, having worked extensively with basketball players and teams to develop individual skills, improve conditioning, and strengthen teamwork. These experiences shaped his ability to motivate others, foster discipline, and build community—qualities he now channels into his work with clients at TPS.
Paul’s philosophy toward training is rooted in the belief that exercise should not only be a step toward greater health goals but also an enjoyable and meaningful part of life. He views training as something that can be done both individually and in community, always with the goal of encouraging one another to find ways to stay active in whatever capacity possible. His vision for TPS is to create an environment where clients feel inspired to return—not just for the physical progress they achieve, but also for the sense of belonging, connection, and fun they experience along the way.
With aspirations to make a positive impact on every client who enters the doors of TPS, Paul is committed to fostering a space where recovery extends beyond the physical. He hopes to help clients rediscover joy in movement, build meaningful relationships with peers, and uncover new purpose in their exercise journeys. No matter the role he plays, Paul is dedicated to serving others and contributing to the uplifting culture that defines The Perfect Step.
Outside of his professional work, Paul enjoys staying active through basketball, running, and playing a wide range of sports. He also values time spent playing video games with friends and exploring new foods, bringing a balance of competitiveness, curiosity, and joy to his personal life. Inspired by Kobe Bryant’s words, “Everything negative—pressure, challenges—is all an opportunity for me to rise,” and the powerful mantra from C.S. Lewis and C.T. Studd, “My prayer is that when I die, all of hell rejoices that I am out of the fight,” Paul approaches life and work with determination, resilience, and faith.
JULIAN ARELLANO
Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant Since 2025
“The person that loves walking will go further than the person that loves the destination.”
Julian Arellano is a Paralysis Recovery Assistant at The Perfect Step, where he brings a thoughtful, holistic approach to supporting clients on their recovery journeys. A 2024 graduate of Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Julian is currently pursuing a degree in Biology at the University of La Verne, where he also plays Division III soccer. Though new to the field of paralysis recovery, Julian is driven by a deep commitment to learning and a strong desire to help others reclaim their quality of life.
His philosophy centers on the belief that recovery is about more than just physical progress. It’s about mental and emotional well-being too. Julian is passionate about making a positive difference in each client’s life, no matter how small. He believes that even helping someone feel one percent better is a meaningful contribution.
Prior to joining The Perfect Step, Julian worked as a sales representative at 24 Hour Fitness and served as a soccer referee, roles that helped shape his communication and leadership skills. Outside of work, he enjoys biking, baking, and connecting with others who are willing to share their knowledge and experiences. His favorite life quote reflects his patient and purpose-driven mindset: “The person who loves walking will go further than the person who loves the destination.”
IAN GEMENIANO
Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant Since 2026
“No matter how far you need to go, how heavy the weight is on your shoulders, or how high you have to climb, take one step at a time. Eventually, you will get where you need to be, and I’ll be right there with you.”
Ian Gemeniano joined The Perfect Step team as a Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant, bringing with him a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a genuine desire to help others throughout every stage of their recovery. A graduate of Nogales High School, Ian continued his education at Mt. San Antonio College and the University of Phoenix. Prior to joining The Perfect Step, his professional background included experience in the warehouse, shipping, and food service industries. While paralysis recovery represents a new professional direction for Ian, he sees it as an opportunity to grow, challenge himself, and learn alongside both the experienced TPS team and the clients he serves.
At the center of Ian’s philosophy is the belief that giving 100% can look different from one day to the next. “If you’re having a bad day and all you can give is 10%, if you give that 10%, you just gave 100%,” says Ian. He believes in encouraging clients to continue showing up for themselves, particularly on the difficult days, and to recognize that every effort and every step forward has value.
Ian aspires to grow alongside TPS clients while developing his own knowledge and abilities within the paralysis recovery field. His goal is to become someone clients and Specialists can depend on and, ultimately, to help as many people as possible regardless of where they may be in their recovery journey. His philosophy of “one step at a time” reflects his belief that even the longest and most challenging journeys are accomplished by continuing to move forward—and that he will be there to support clients along the way.
Outside of The Perfect Step, Ian enjoys working out, cooking, playing video games, watching Korean dramas, and airsoft.
XZAVIER FORD
Certified Paralysis Recovery Assistant Since 2026
“Progress is never a direct path.”
Xzavier Ford joined The Perfect Step team as a Paralysis Recovery Assistant with a passion for serving others, building meaningful relationships, and developing a deeper understanding of the paralysis community. Xzavier earned his Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Carroll College, where he was also a collegiate student-athlete. Prior to joining The Perfect Step, he interned with the Helena Area Community Foundation as a Community & Development Intern and with the Carroll College Athletics Department as a Sports Marketing Intern. He has also volunteered as a coach for an after-school sports program, giving him experience encouraging others through athletics, teamwork, and personal development.
Xzavier’s philosophy toward working with clients begins with empathy. He believes that understanding each person’s unique circumstances, goals, and challenges is essential to providing the best support possible. Rather than viewing every recovery journey the same way, Xzavier strives to meet clients where they are, learn from their experiences, and become a dependable member of the team supporting their progress.
As he develops within the paralysis recovery field, Xzavier aspires to become a proficient assistant to both TPS Specialists and clients while gaining a greater understanding of the community he serves. Beyond his work inside the facility, he hopes to bring greater awareness to the importance of specialized, long-term paralysis recovery services and help demonstrate their impact through measurable outcomes. His philosophy, “Progress is never a direct path,” reflects his understanding as a former athlete that meaningful progress often includes challenges, adjustments, perseverance, and victories of many different sizes.
Outside of The Perfect Step, Xzavier enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing sports, reading, and going to the beach.
Administrative Staff
Juana Rodriguez
HEAD OF ADMINISTRATION AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS LIAISON
Juana has been part of The Perfect Step family since 2017. Her passion for customer service and hard work gave her the opportunity to take a leadership role at TPS. Juana has been recognized for her communication skills and having many responsibilities. Although she was happy with her former line of work, her true calling came when she was given the opportunity to be part of The Perfect Step team. Juana has had many personal situations that had to help her understand how important it is to treat everyone with respect and kindness.