For Aracely Castro, Patient Care Technician at Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant, this isn't just a life motto, it's a principle that has guided her through personal challenges, inspired her career path, and shaped the compassionate care she provides every day.
Born in El Paso, Texas, and raised in San Antonio from the age of 9, Aracely's connection to Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant began long before she became a Patient Care Technician (PCT). In 2019, during one of the most difficult periods of her life, her father was hospitalized at Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant while battling kidney disease. Aracely has experienced healthcare from multiple perspectives — as a patient, a family member of a patient, and a healthcare employee (PCT). After her father successfully received a kidney transplant from her mother, Aracely became the primary caregiver for both of her parents during their recovery. She balanced these responsibilities while also attending college.
That experience changed everything.
"Going through uncertainty and fear alongside my family made me want to commit myself to compassionate patient care," Aracely shares.
A first-generation college student studying biology at the University of the Incarnate Word, Aracely immersed herself in healthcare opportunities during her undergraduate years. She pursued research focused on diabetic kidney disease, presented her findings at multiple conferences, earned awards for her work, completed extensive healthcare training, and gained experience in phlebotomy — all driven by a desire to learn and serve beyond what was required.
Her passion for medicine was also influenced by a physician who cared for her when she underwent treatment for a brain tumor at age 16. The physician's compassion, faith, and commitment to holistic care left a lasting impression and inspired Aracely's dream of becoming a pediatric physician herself.
Today, nearly two years into her role as a PCT at Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant, Aracely has become known for the same qualities that once inspired her: compassion, empathy, and advocacy.
She credits much of her growth to the mentorship of Melissa Cantu, who has supported her since day one. After meeting Aracely during a career interview, Melissa encouraged her aspirations, checked in regularly, and even wrote recommendation letters as Aracely pursued her goal of medical school.
Like many healthcare professionals, Aracely faced challenges early in her career. She remembers being nervous about performing vital signs independently and learning to adapt to the fast-paced hospital environment. Rather than becoming discouraged, she actively sought feedback, embraced opportunities to learn, and grew more confident with every patient interaction.
One patient encounter continues to stay with her.
While serving as a sitter for an elderly patient with advanced dementia, Aracely witnessed the fear and exhaustion his wife carried after years of caring for her husband. Although the wife initially appeared stern and frustrated, Aracely approached both her and the patient with patience and compassion. She calmly held the patient's hands, spoke gently to him, and listened attentively to his wife's concerns. Recognizing additional support was needed, she connected the family with a social worker.
Before leaving, the patient's wife told Aracely, "You are an angel in my day today."
That moment reinforced a lesson Aracely carries with her every day: fear often presents itself in different ways, and behind every patient and family member is a story deserving of compassion and understanding.
Her impact extends beyond individual patient encounters. As a bilingual caregiver, Aracely frequently helps bridge communication gaps for Spanish-speaking patients and families, helping them feel more comfortable and understood during vulnerable moments. She recognizes the importance of serving Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant’s diverse patient population and takes pride in helping patients feel seen, heard, and cared for.
Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Aracely was nominated for a BEE Award after going above and beyond to assist a patient and family member. The patient's mother later told her, "I have been seeing your love and dedication." Seeing the trust that Aracely provided allowed the mother to finally go home, shower, and rest knowing her loved one was in caring hands. The heartfelt embrace they shared remains one of the most meaningful moments of Aracely's career.
For Aracely, being a PCT has shaped her both professionally and personally. The role has taught her how to adapt, think proactively, advocate for patients, and tailor her approach to everyone’s unique needs. It has also reinforced the importance of teamwork.
"PCTs are often the first people patients interact with and the people who spend the most time with them," she says. "We are advocates. We help everything run smoother and support the entire care team so patients can continue progressing toward recovery."
As she prepares to begin medical school later this summer, Aracely carries forward the lessons she has learned while at this hospital. Her experiences have strengthened her commitment to becoming a physician who combines medical excellence with compassionate, patient-centered care.
When asked what motivates her on difficult days, her answer is simple:
"My ‘why’ always brings me back to my father's experience at here at Methodist Hospital Specialty and Transplant and my own experience as a family member of a patient. That story is what keeps me committed."
From caring for her own family during times of uncertainty to becoming a trusted advocate for patients and families facing challenges of their own, Aracely exemplifies the heart of patient care.
This Patient Care Technician Week, we celebrate Aracely Castro for her resilience, compassion, dedication, and the lasting difference she makes in the lives of those she serves. Her journey is a reminder that some of the most impactful caregivers are those who have walked alongside patients and families themselves — and who choose every day to transform those experiences into hope, healing, and service.