AS TOLD TO BC PIRES
My name is Anuradha Boodram and I am an echocardiographer.
I come from and live in “the city that never sleeps" St James, the heart of all the action. I consider myself blessed that my family extends to grandparents, uncles, aunt and cousins in “the family home.” My grandmother always says, "Normal people in normal families [leave] the family nest. In our family, everyone came back!" There are now 11 of us under one roof!
Family is everything. My sister and I, after several years in London, where my deceased dad Khemraj Boodram lived, also moved back to the crowded family home. In 2013, after major renovations, everyone got their own space. We make time to pray as a family and to sit as a family for Sunday lunch.
Our patriarch, Samaroo Ramlal, my nana, passed away in April 2019 at 92. Never have I nor anyone ever heard him speak a harsh word. We hope his legacy of love, human values and family ideals live through his children and grandchildren.
I am who I am because of the love and sacrifices of my family. My mom Deborah Boodram, my baby sister, Ashwani Boodram, Mona Ramlal (Nani) my grandmother. My uncle Dave Ramlal (Mamoo/mom's brother) is like a father figure to me. My aunt Vidya (who I call Moss because, as a toddler, I couldn't say Mousie). My sister and I call Vijai Ramlal, my mom’s younger brother Ving. He and his wife, Rachel, have two adorable girls, Jaya and Sanam Ramlal. These are all the immediate family members, all under one roof.
My grandfather, the main male figure in my life, set the bar really high for any prospect life partner. Eventually, this amazing human being, Videsh Sooklal, was able to get and keep my attention. Because a lot of his mannerisms remind me so much of my grandfather. We got married last November 2021.
Asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I answered doctor, teacher, reporter, forensic pathologist, air traffic controller. In London, I pursued my BSc in radiotherapy at City University. I gained work experience at Great Ormond Street Hospital but I was too sensitive/emotional to work with sick kids everyday. I returned to Trinidad in 2003 and did the echocardiography course (in collaboration with York College, Canada). I received my diploma on October 20…. my birthday!
I come from Hindu background, attended Roman Catholic schools, attended church and temple. I believe that all paths lead to the same one God. I believe that God is beyond any name and form, or one particular religion. Quantum physics suggests the interconnectedness of all things and beings and the connection of our minds with a cosmic mind. Science is no longer disputing God, but rather shining a light on just how limitless God is. Even if BC Pires tells me science has
never recognised God, I want to believe it does!
I am the vice-president of the service-spiritual based TT Sri Sathya Sai Baba International Organisation. I also sometimes represe
