From patient to purpose: Myke Regacho’s journey to leading with heart at AdventHealth Porter

At just eight years old, Myke Regacho faced a life-altering diagnosis: heart disease. That experience didn’t just shape his childhood—it ignited a lifelong dream to work in health care. “I wanted to give back to the profession that saved my life,” Myke shares. “Helping others through their most vulnerable moments became my purpose.”

Encouraged by his parents and siblings, who always believed he’d make a great nurse, Myke followed not just his heart—but theirs too. Now, with 19 years of nursing experience, he leads the fast-paced, high-acuity medical/surgical unit known as 3North at AdventHealth Porter.

Growing up in the Philippines, Myke learned early that compassion can create a ripple effect. “I chose nursing for its stability and the chance to serve those who truly need help,” he says. “Being with patients in their most vulnerable moments is a shared experience, and that’s what makes this work so meaningful.”

What makes 3North special to Myke is the team’s unwavering spirit. “They never miss a beat,” he says. “Through every challenge, they bring sharp thinking, creative problem-solving, and a whole lot of heart. Laughter, teamwork, and innovation fuel their shifts, making 3North a powerhouse of care and camaraderie.”

One moment that stands out for Myke is when his team, despite initial disagreements, came together to find a solution that prioritized patient care. “Seeing the results—whether through improved metrics or positive feedback—fills me with pride and reaffirms the value of our teamwork.”

Myke fosters that teamwork by building genuine connections. “I truly care about my staff and love hearing what they have to say—not just about patient care, but about their personal lives too,” he says. From team-building activities to celebrating every victory, Myke believes trust is the foundation of strong collaboration.

What keeps him motivated? Witnessing patients recover from kidney or liver transplants and return to the unit as if nothing happened. “It fills me with a deep, rewarding sense of joy,” he says.

To manage the emotional and physical demands of nursing, Myke prioritizes work-life balance. “When I’m off, I fully embrace the things I love—traveling, discovering new restaurants, and singing karaoke. It helps me recharge and ensures my cup is replenished every week.”

His advice to new nurses? “Give yourself some grace. The journey to becoming a great nurse starts somewhere. Embrace the process and let each step shape the incredible nurse you are becoming.”

Reflecting on his own early days, Myke wishes he had known it’s okay not to know everything. “Work-life balance is key to nursing resiliency. You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

At AdventHealth Porter, Myke has found more than a workplace—he’s found a family. “The camaraderie, support, and shared purpose make this team incredibly special,” he says. His rapid transition from travel charge nurse to ANM to manager was made possible by the unwavering support of his 3North team and leadership.