community outreach and health and wellness promotion targeting low-income pregnant women and children. After moving to Dallas, I worked as a Health Educator managing a caseload of clients enrolled in Medicaid. I worked closely with pregnant women and children, as well as individuals that were diagnosed with chronic health conditions and disabilities. I realized that having a nursing degree would broaden my scope of practice and open the door to more opportunities. God answered my prayers when I was accepted to Baylor University’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing in Dallas. In 2006, I completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, graduating with honors. My nursing background and experience includes liver transplant coordination, emergency department, perioperative, and heart failure.
My husband’s work brought my family to Austin in 2021 during the pandemic. He and I just celebrated our 25th anniversary. For fun, we explore Austin, try new restaurants, go to concerts, and practice Yin Yoga. We have two daughters in high school, both are active in sports and pursuing extracurricular activities that bring them joy. I can’t leave out our two dogs, Pepper and Yuki-they are both shameless when it comes to treats and belly rubs.
I believe that my career journey has come full circle now that I’m a Wesley Nurse, which is a unique sub-specialty of Faith Community Nursing. In this role, I’ll provide holistic care of body, mind, and spirit to the least served in our community, empowering them to improve their health by affording them access to care, resources, and knowledge at no cost. I’ll be an advocate for the uninsured and underserved, helping them navigate health and social services to improve their health and well-being. I look forward to partnering and collaborating with UUMC’s congregants to build supportive networks and relationships that fulfill Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God”. I feel blessed and proud to be your Wesley Nurse and want to thank you for welcoming me to your congregation.
With peace and kindness,
Erika Castillo, BSN RN
Wesley Nurse
