Our Staff
BackFirst brings the best people together to help you. We offer the finest professional team with diverse experience, cultures and interests combined with enthusiasm and compassion. Together, we create a positive atmosphere from the first time you walk in our doors.
Michael K. Leary, P.T. - Program Director
A graduate of the Mayo Clinic in Physical Therapy, Michael has owned and managed several orthopedic clinics. He was honored to serve as a therapist at the 1984 Olympic Games and currently is one of only a few MedX Certified practitioners in the Bay Area. Michael has twice been named 'Best Physical Therapist' in Marin County.
Prior to launching his consultation practice in 2001, Michael was responsible as Clinical Operations Director for over 13 rehabilitation clinics in the greater Bay Area. His 20 plus years of expertise as a physical therapist in the workplace enables him to efficiently and effectively assess and correct musculoskeletal and ergonomic issues to prevent injuries and potential work-related claims and improve the well-being of employees.
Jan Hennefer, B.S. - Health Awareness Coordinator
Jan brings to BackFirst a wealth of experience. Both A.C.E. and I.W.A. certified, Jan has designed and launched wellness programs in corporate and municipal venues. She is an engaging speaker and dynamic motivator, helping employees make healthy lifestyle choices. Whether teaching a one-on-one client, a group fitness class of 50 or motivating 5,000 employees, Jan builds healthier and happier co-workers.
Gerald Chan, P.T.A., B.A. - Physical Therapy Assistant
Besides his professional licensure as a Physical Therapy Assistant, Gerald's diverse background includes certifications as a Pharmacy technician. He is also founder and Director of Able Medical, which supplies medical supplies and equipment. Gerald is skilled in body mechanics instruction and provides specific employee exercise regimens. Gerald is also fluent in Cantonese.
Marie 'Bensie' Laberinto - Physical Therapy Aide
Bensie holds a B.S. in Physical Therapy from the Philippines. She has worked in clinical settings for over 12 years. Fluent in Filipino, Bensie being to BackFirst and Restore+ Rehabilitation a wealth of skills and customer service.
Hang Nguyen, B.S. - HealthStrong Personal Trainer
Hang degree in Health and Human Performance has greatly supported the HealthStrong program for MTA employees. With her enthusiasm and bright smile Hang brings out the best in those employees looking to improve their health and well-being. Hang is fluent in Vietnamese and has extensive experience in worksite health promotion, exercise psychology and biomechanics.
Sunnie Williams, B.S. Biology - Health Awareness
Sunnie's diverse background extends from serving as an Athletic Trainer at Morgan State University as well as a Health Educator providing biometric assessments. She also continues to assist with CityBuild, through the mayor's Office of Workforce Development. Sunnie oversees BackFirst's Health Risk Assessment program.
Diana Henninger, B.S. Combined Sciences - Cable Car Trainer
Diana has previous experience as both a Physical Therapy Aide and Massage Therapist. She currently oversees the BackFirst facility at the Cable Car Division. Diana possesses wonderful people skills and uses her education to assist employees with carefully designed workout regimens.
Cheshi Ashikaga - C.M.T. - Cable Car Trainer
Cheshi, also an exercise personal trainer at the Cable Car Division for the MTA, has worked with the public in health and wellness settings for several years. She most recently was certified as a massage therapist to add to her skills in health promotion and wellness.
Breezie Sage - Exercise Specialist
Breezie brings a lifelong passion for health and fitness to the BackFirst team. She works out regularly and especially enjoys the challenge of boxing and kickboxing. Raised in San Francisco, Breezie has been a regular user of Public Transportation. "Muni has been of great service to me and my family," says Breezie. "I am excited to give back to the MTA employees through the BackFirst programs."
Breezie is currently studying Criminal Justice at City College of San Francisco and relaxes on the weekends by dancing with her friends. She brings her enthusiasm and positive personality to the HealthStrong bus as it provides services to the Muni Divisions and mechanics shops.
