As snow fell across Dallas, MedPro International Explorer Arisa Takagi paused her busy schedule to reflect on her recent accomplishment: presenting at the 2024 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Her paper, titled The Effects of a Balance Training Program on Fall Risk in a Patient with a Rare Neurodegenerative Movement Disorder: Neuroferritinopathy – A Case Report, marked a major achievement in her journey as a physical therapist.
Arisa’s inspiration stemmed from caring for a patient with neuroferritinopathy, an extraordinarily rare neurological disorder affecting fewer than 1,000 people in the US, according to the NIH. “I’ve been interested in neurology, and I channeled my passion into researching and writing about this condition,” Arisa shared. Initially, the paper served as the capstone project for her doctorate in physical therapy. However, her professor believed it could benefit a wider audience. “My goal was to highlight how physical therapists can play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for individuals facing rare neurological challenges,” said Arisa. While her extensive experience with scientific writing contributed to her paper’s success, she attributes it primarily to her genuine passion for the subject. This same passion fuels every aspect of Arisa’s life, shaping her dedication to her work and her unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Pursuing a Healthcare Career
Arisa’s interest in neurology started early on—she initially aspired to become a neurosurgeon. However, after she graduated, she completed an internship at a hospital in the Philippines and decided she wanted to pursue physical therapy. “I loved what I was doing. And one of my goals as a doctor was to help patients and make a difference. I was already doing that through PT.”
Pursuing a PT career didn’t mean leaving neurology behind. She discovered she could specialize in neurology within the field of physical therapy. She taught the subject at a university in the Philippines before pursuing new opportunities in the US.
“A friend of mine was working for MedPro,” Arisa shared. “She was doing really well, and I felt like I should give it a try. As it turned out, moving to the US was the best choice I could have made.”
A New Life in the US
Transitioning from the Philippines to the US wasn’t easy. “Asian culture is totally opposite of American culture,” said Arisa. “I’m half Japanese and half Filipino, and my Japanese side is very traditional and conservative. We’re introverted. We keep to ourselves.” But when she came to the US, she encountered completely different norms. “Everyone was so friendly. And I was forced to talk more. Even though I was a professor, I’m afraid of public speaking. So, I was forced to speak up here.”
She also had to contend with homesickness as she navigated living alone for the first time, without any friends or family, in a new country. But she had support. “Med Pro made sure that I was safe. That I had a car. I had a hotel to stay in when I first arrived.” Even now, three years later, Arisa’s Employee Relations Manager, Gabriel Fernandes, is available to assist her with any issues.
Arisa’s desire to make a difference led her to a career in healthcare and continues to inspire her compassionate approach to patient care. “I see my patients as family, and they see me the same way,” she shared. “I’ve formed meaningful relationships with them—some have even invited me to join their Christmas or Thanksgiving celebrations after being discharged. It’s these connections that make my work truly fulfilling.”
In her free time, Arisa embraces her love of travel. She’s visited London, Amsterdam, and the Pacific Northwest, including Seattle and Oregon. Two years ago, she took a memorable road trip along the East Coast. “I really do travel a lot,” she said. “I love hiking, especially in national parks. When I’m not working, I enjoy reading and exercising daily.”
A Commitment to Growth
Beyond her hobbies, Arisa is tackling a new challenge: learning Spanish. “Half of my patient population speaks Spanish, and many don’t speak English,” she explained. “Some patients even request a Spanish-speaking therapist, so learning the language is a must.” As part of MedPro International’s professional development benefit, Arisa can be reimbursed for approved continuing education expenses related to her profession, such as language courses along with certifications, conferences, and study materials. She plans to complete her Spanish proficiency exam before her contract ends.
“MedPro has been incredibly supportive throughout my journey,” she added. “They’ve been there every step of the way, even covering the costs for my presentation at the ACRM conference. I’m truly grateful for all the opportunities they’ve provided.”
Looking Ahead
As Arisa’s time with MedPro nears its end—her contract concludes in May—she is carefully weighing her options. While she may choose to stay at her current facility, she’s also exploring other opportunities. Wherever she decides to work and call home, Arisa will continue to bring her exceptional skill, dedication, and passion for healthcare to benefit her patients and the community.