Day: May 13, 2025

Rey Feo brings royal court to Donor Pavilion

Rey Feo LXXVI, Fabian Castillo Sr., made a special visit to South Texas Blood & Tissue’s Donor Pavilion on Wednesday. Accompanied by his royal court, Castillo donated blood, thanked staff, and awarded one of Fiesta’s highest honors—the Cabrito Medal—to the organization.

A lifesaving honor for South Texas Blood & Tissue

Castillo awarded the Cabrito Medal to recognize the organization’s lifesaving work in the community. Only 100 of these medals are given out each year by the Rey Feo, making it a rare and meaningful honor.

“I’m honored to give this Cabrito to the blood bank,” Castillo said while reclining in the donor chair. “It’s a way to thank them for all the blood they’ve given to the community.”

Blueprints for Success: Rey Feo’s vision

As Rey Feo LXXVI, Castillo has launched Blueprints for Success, a campaign focused on helping students build strong foundations for the future. His scholarship program supports both college-bound and vocational-track students, reflecting his commitment to inclusive educational opportunities.

Castillo, a West Side native and successful entrepreneur, began with Fabian’s Painting and now owns a growing construction company. He believes in giving back through action—donating blood, supporting education, and celebrating community service.

A reign rooted in service

Rey Feo LXXVI’s reign blends tradition, community outreach, and purpose. His blood donation and recognition of South Texas Blood & Tissue underscore a shared mission: saving lives and supporting the San Antonio community.

A personal loss sparks tissue donation advocacy

In 2020, Tatiana Castillo lost her fiancé, Asante Contreras, in a tragic car accident. He was just two days from finishing paramedic training. At age 20, Asante had already registered as a tissue and cornea donor. His final act of kindness helped save and heal lives and inspired Tatiana towards tissue donation advocacy.

Tatiana’s grief became the foundation of her advocacy. Today, she uses her voice and platform to raise awareness about tissue donation and the lives it can touch.

Building a career in donation support

Tatiana now works as a Tissue Partner Relations Specialist at South Texas Blood & Tissue. Her role involves collaborating with hospital teams to educate staff, support the tissue recovery process, and promote compassionate care for donor families.

Her journey into the field began after attending a Donate Life event in California in 2021. There, she met grieving families and professionals who inspired her path. She later joined the South Texas Blood & Tissue team and has been with the organization for three years.

Advocacy on and off the stage

In October 2024, Tatiana was crowned Ms. Val Verde Texas. She uses this platform to honor Asante’s memory and promote donor registration across her hometown of Del Rio, Texas. She also organizes local events and speaks at community programs about the impact of tissue and organ donation.

“Asante gave to others. I want to continue that mission,” she said. “I speak not just for him, but for all families navigating loss.”

A message for healthcare partners

Tatiana’s story highlights the emotional side of donation. For hospital partners, it’s a reminder that behind every donation is a family, a story, and a legacy. Her work supports both clinical goals and the compassionate care of grieving families.

“There is strength in grief,” Tatiana said. “It can be a bridge to healing—for ourselves and for others.”