Life in Mission Hill: Rachel Lugo

February 1, 2019

By Brooke Hermann

Rachel Lugo, 50, is a born-and-raised Boston native. Originally from the South End, Lugo moved to Mission Hill with her parents when she was 13 years old, and hasn’t left since.

She’s lived in the same house on the Hill for more than 10 years with her daughter, Mary. Even after a decade of living there, Lugo loves her home and never plans to move.

With ample experience living in the area, Lugo knows the entirety of Mission Hill inside and out, even though a lot has changed since she was young.

“There are a lot more lights, a lot more buildings, and lots of bikes,” said Lugo, “But, most of all, there is a lot more opportunity.”

A self-proclaimed “neighborhood mom,” Lugo has her door open to people living in Mission Hill to enjoy delicious dinners and her warm company.

“There is always food on my table. I love to meet new people, and I’ve never met someone from Mission Hill who isn’t friendly.”

When she’s not feeding the neighborhood, Lugo works as a physician’s assistant at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, helping the elderly and the blind with everyday tasks.

“I’m kind of like Wonder Woman when I’m at my job,” laughs Lugo. “Whenever someone needs help, I’ll be there.” Her father also works there as a physician.

To end the day, on her way home from work, she always makes an effort to stop by Mission Hill’s J.P. Licks to enjoy an ice cream cone.

“When you work as hard as I do, it’s important to give yourself a treat at the end of the day.”