04/17/2025
It is with sentimental and emotional hearts that we announce that today will be Anita Davidson's (founder of CR) last official day at Creative Rehab. She will still be working full-time in her lab developing a cure for cancer. She will be dedicating her work life to the next very important and necessary cause that we know will only benefit from her presence.
As this chapter comes to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on her life's work here and where it all started.
Everyone, meet Reuben, Anita and Creative Rehab's first patient!
Reuben met Anita about two years before opening Creative Rehab 27 years ago when he needed physical therapy, and his wife recommended her to him. Reuben says, “I’ve had a lot of physical therapists over the years – some good and some bad – but Anita immediately struck me the most as someone who KNEW what they were doing, and as someone who was concerned about her patients. Her effervescent personality carried through every visit.”
At this time, Anita was dealing with the conflict of feeling that there was passion and dedication missing from the workplace regarding the treatment of patients. She felt the pressing need to heal the patient from the root of their problem, not just their symptoms.
Rueben helped encourage Anita both as a friend and with his knowledge of business to go out on her own. He was CR's first patient two years later when she first treated him on the second floor of her home, which she had professionally set up as her first private practice space. He remembers those times fondly and remembers Anita's two little daughters being curious and peeking around the corner to watch him do his exercises.
Now, Anita’s daughter Nichole proudly assumes the position of CEO. She is all grown up but still uses that sense of curiosity to always learn more and continue to grow in her amazing specialties as well as to propel Creative Rehab forward.
When asked what changes he’s witnessed Creative Rehab go through the last 27 years, Rueben states that, “It’s not what’s changed, but what hasn’t changed – I’ve been to so many clinics where the therapist sees you for a few minutes, then hands you off to their assistant while the therapist moves on to another patient, and they don’t even remember what exercises they gave you and what didn’t work – and I’ve gotten more hurt by doing exercises they gave me that didn’t work for me. I have never been to a clinic that is like Creative Rehab – where the approach is so good and focused on patient care. That is why Creative Rehab stands out – and I credit Anita and Nichole for that. Anita’s care for her patients goes further than the building she’s working in – she’s even helped me pick out an office chair that wouldn’t hurt my back. And that’s why I recommend so many people to come here. I’ve never had a situation that couldn’t be fixed by the Creative staff.”
Reuben also wants everyone to know to “Lead a healthy life as much as you can, because you never know what’s going to happen. Always be sure to know who your doctor is and do your homework. There is excellent healthcare out there, you just have to find it. As a family, take care of each other and also make sure you get the best care you can get. Don’t be shy, just keep asking questions.”
Lastly, Reuben says, “I just am so grateful for Creative Rehab and the staff, especially Anita. Everything happens for a reason. My whole family and I are very appreciative.”
Reuben’s story is not unique. Everyone who meets Anita feels her effervescent charm and hardworking, personable spirit. We are so blessed to have Anita in our lives. Creative Rehab wouldn’t be here without her, and it wouldn’t be what it is today without her. Every day, we aspire to learn from her, to model her work philosophy, and to treat every single patient with specialized care and attention. We will continue to attack any ailments at the root of the cause, not just their symptoms. Thank you, Anita! We will never stop looking up to you, and we look forward to the times you’ll be coming in to visit us periodically!
