The paediatrician María Concepción Pérez González, popularly known as Doctor Conce, was honoured this weekend upon her retirement after over 40 years of dedicated service in Lanzarote’s healthcare system. The event, held at a restaurant in Puerto del Carmen, was attended by family, professional colleagues, friends, and patients, including the Mayor of Arrecife, Yonathan de León, who acknowledged the doctor’s contributions.
Doctor Conce Pérez arrived in Lanzarote in 1980, joining the then known Residencia Sanitaria Nuestra Señora de los Volcanes, located in the former Casa del Mar, now the Valterra Health Centre. From the outset, she worked as a paediatrician and became a key figure in child healthcare on the island. In the final phase of her career, she served as head of the Paediatrics Department at the Doctor Molina Orosa University Hospital.
During the ceremony, her children Miguel and Sara were present to honour her. Miguel has followed in his mother’s footsteps and has recently joined as a paediatrician in Lanzarote, while Sara is dedicated to teaching. The doctor was also supported by many colleagues, families, and friends, who highlighted her commitment and approachability.
In addition to her healthcare role, Doctor Conce participated in local politics. She was a councillor in the Arrecife Town Hall from 1995, overseeing the Environment and Tourism departments, an advisor at the Cabildo of Lanzarote, a spokesperson for the Popular Party, and Director General in the Government of the Canary Islands. However, she never entirely abandoned her medical vocation, balancing her political duties with her paediatric practice.
The tribute underscored the profound impact Doctor Conce has had on the health and well-being of thousands of families in Lanzarote. Throughout her career, she led medical teams and played a significant role in consolidating paediatric services on the island.
