#IamMGH - Meet Eric Del Castillo

#IamMGH tells the stories of our people. Meet Eric Del Castillo, unit clerk at Michael Garron Hospital (MGH).

“This is my first job in healthcare. I used to work in banking where I did things like approve loans, evaluate and analyze client portfolios and prepare mortgage documents. But after many years, I felt like I needed a change. I wanted a new challenge. I saw an opening for a ward clerk at MGH and I thought, ‘Okay, why not?’ I went through the whole interview process and felt very fortunate to have been offered the role.

I began working as a ward clerk in the Infection Prevention and Control (B2) and Acute Respirology and Oncology (H7) Units two years ago, and loved it immediately. I used to do volunteer work back home in the Philippines with Mother Teresa’s Missionary Sisters of Charity, where I assisted in providing care for sick orphans as well as the aged and dying. Interfacing with staff, patients and visitors at MGH allows me to continue this work in another way. I love having the opportunity to give back — even in some small way — for everything I have received in life.

In B2 and H7, I was able to help patients with small tasks like getting them a blanket, pillow or glass of water or adjusting their bed. I now work in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) where, as a unit clerk, there aren’t as many opportunities to interface with patients due to the nature of their care. But I do get to interact with patients’ families and tend to their needs. I get to be a friendly face for them during a time when they need it most.

The role of a ward or unit clerk is excellent for me because it combines the two things I’m most interested in: compassionate care and administrative work. I’m able to provide assistance to nurses and doctors with my clerical duties while, at the same time, acting as the first point of contact and support for people in need. I have the opportunity to offer encouraging words to people and to help maintain our team’s spirit of cooperation and communication. That’s a big comfort for me. In this, I find fulfillment and meaning in life.”