Meet Mark Castro, our Faces of BaptistCare #40 and new member of the In Home Care team

What is your role at BaptistCare, and can you describe a typical day in your job?

I’m currently stepping up as the Interim In Home Care Nurse Manager. I was previously one of the clinical care leads of our nursing team. Our team aim is to make sure all patient care is well co-ordinated. On my average day of work, I usually start by checking emails, then I spend most of my day taking phone calls from colleagues and carers working in the field. There are also regular calls from other departments and families.

What do you like about working with BaptistCare and in the IHC space?

What I really like with BaptistCare is the sense of community.

Did you always want to work within the caring space?

Well, apart from my dreams of being a professional sportsman – yes! My parents encouraged me to pursue nursing studies as a way of pursuing ‘the greener pastures’ as we always say in my birth country, The Philippines. And I’m glad that I’ve followed this path. Working in the healthcare industry gives me opportunities to learn new and exciting things every day while giving care to people who need my help. My personal and professional growth is nurtured in this space.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was young, I really wanted to play sports professionally. I used to play basketball but nowadays I just watch it.

Can you tell us two surprising things about yourself?

I do photography as a hobby. Also, I can cook and bake when asked to although I can’t promise it will be good (but at least I try!)

Tell us about your photography.

I don’t have a favourite photographer, but I follow the works of Sam Kolder, Chris Burkard, Dani Diamond and Brandon Woelfel. I do a mix of landscape, astrophotography and portrait photography. One of my photos recently won a local camera store competition which was really exciting. (Ed. Photo included in this article!).

We hear that you’re a new dad? Tell us about your baby and what has surprised you about parenting so far.

Yes, I am a father to Matteo who just turned six months recently. The saying that time flies is an understatement! It feels like yesterday that my wife and I were at the hospital waiting for Matteo to arrive. He’s such a sweet and observant little boy and has recently been attending baby sensory classes and really enjoys them.

What surprises me the most is that 24 hours is too short when you have a baby. Also, I never knew I could worry so much about him. The love you have for your child is really special and it’s really the best feeling for me and my wife.

I’d like to acknowledge all the other full time working parents (dad and mums) out there who are also heavily involved in raising their children.

Do you have a favourite quote or motto in life?

Respect is earned by action alone, not self-gratification. (Paul Combs)

How would your friends describe you?

My friends would describe me as a silent, easy-going type of guy, but helpful and approachable.

Can you describe your ideal weekend?

An ideal weekend for me would include some free time for myself – free from the usual hustle and bustle of the working week. It would involve catching up on some sleep and an excuse to avoid a routine. I enjoy hanging out with my family or our friends over a barbecue or going for long drive to take unique photos. It may also involve going on an outdoor family adventure and spending quality time with my family, especially as a new dad.

Do you have a mentor or idol?

I would say that I idolise my parents for everything they have done to ensure that me and my siblings can be successful.