Steven L. Orebaugh, MD, Professor of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine in the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, has added a new title to his growing body of published work. His latest book, The Six-Lined Racerunner (Sunbury Press, Inc.), marks his fifth publication and his third work that expands his reputation beyond medicine into the world of storytelling.
The Six-Lined Racerunner is a memoir of Dr. Orebaugh’s childhood as the son of a U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sergeant. Set largely in Spain, the book follows a year in the life of a 10‑year‑old boy navigating life on the outskirts of a military base at Torrejón. The narrative blends adventure, humor, and coming‑of‑age moments as young Steven develops a passion for biology, particularly the local lizard species that give the book its name, while overcoming extreme shyness.
“This was a transformative year in my life,” Dr. Orebaugh says. “I began to develop my own self-confidence and break out of my shell. Most importantly, this was the year I learned to love biology as we pursued lizards in central Spain, a passion which became the foundation for my desire to become a doctor later in life.”
Through vivid scenes set in Madrid, Segovia, Sevilla, and other Spanish cities, the book offers both a travelogue and a warm tribute to the resilience of U.S. military families. In keeping with that theme, Dr. Orebaugh dedicates the work to military families worldwide. The story also reflects his own trajectory: though not included in the book, Dr. Orebaugh later served in the U.S. Navy medical corps, achieving the rank of Captain.
The Six-Lined Racerunner is available through Sunbury Press and major online retailers. More information about Dr. Orebaugh and his work can be found on his website.