Jose Castillo

Connect What inspired your most recent tattoo?

The twin tiger Sak yant is said to bring the wearer power & authority, protection in conflict, courage and fearlessness, and balance of strength. I got this tattoo because I see myself as a protector. Working with cancer patent's I’ve witnessed the many cracks in our broken system. My hope is to change it. Ive gone toe to toe with CEOs who called me weak for calling out malpractice. I sued them and invoked change. My tattoos remind me to fight for what’s right which I will always

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

My ink does speak! My ink reminds me daily of those I’ve lost. It tells me I am strong when I feel weak. It reminds me to be fearless in my line of work. It chants silently invoking blessings for luck, protection, charisma, and spiritual resilience. It anchors my spirit in balance between the earthly and divine. My Ink is responsible for reminding me of my intentions, power, and who I am or wish to be. My ink says many things if I am willing to listen.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the 25,000 to pay for the rest of my college tuition so I can obtain my BSN. I want to work toward my goal of becoming a CRNA working at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Unfortunately I lost federal grants and will have to pay the remainder of my tuition out of pocket. The remaining funds will go to my parents for their retirement fund. They are in their late 50s with no retirement savings. I want all their sacrifices to be rewarded back to them and then some. That’s why I work so ha