Pediatric surgeon, author and artist
Born on April 14, 1954, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Dr. Humberto Lugo Vicente—widely known as Tito Lugo—has devoted his life to medicine, education and literary creation.
His career brings together decades of work in pediatric surgery with a literary catalogue spanning novels, short stories, essays, theatre, poetry, history, medicine and children’s literature.
A life shaped by discipline, imagination and service.
Education and early years
While attending Colegio San José in Río Piedras, he distinguished himself academically and led the local rock band “The Red Stones.” He trained in martial arts, earning a black belt in Shotokan and a brown belt in Taekwondo.
Academic achievement
He graduated Magna Cum Laude in Science from the University of Puerto Rico, concentrating in Chemistry and Biochemistry. He received the Chemistry Medal and the Facundo Bueso Medal and was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha during medical school.
Pediatric surgery
He completed training in General and Pediatric Surgery at the University of Puerto Rico and later joined its faculty as Professor of Pediatric Surgery. His leadership roles included President of the Medical Faculty and Director of the Department of Surgery at the University Pediatric Hospital.
Service to Puerto Rico
Throughout his career, he has advocated for stronger pediatric surgical services, particularly the development and modernization of operating rooms at the University Pediatric Hospital, benefiting many children and families.
Family life and creative work
He shares his life with his wife, Wanda Torres Otero, and their four children: Karlos, Alex, Javier and María del Carmen. He continues to practice at San Jorge Hospital and the University Pediatric Hospital. He also enjoys oil painting, writing and oenology.
Literary work
His catalogue comprises 46 original works and 45 English translations. Titles include Aquamistic, The Great Dream, Mark of Pharaoh, Providence…, Hipocampus, Uanda the Panda, Gladys Milagros… the Scent of Roses… and The Last Scribe.