MY CAYMAN: Dr. Taylor Burrowes

 

Well known local Mental Health Counsellor at the Wellness Centre, Dr.Taylor Burrowes, is active in the community through her work and responsibilities as Deputy Chair of the Mental Health Commission. In her down time you’ll see her playing beach volleyball or sailing around the sister islands. In this interview Taylor shares with us why she loves her island home.

 

What makes you proud to be Caymanian?

It is a proud nation of simple, peaceful, down to earth and generally good natured souls. It allows for a positive and healthy lifestyle organically. Even with the young development of the country, we have a population full of natural talent and diverse resources.

 

What kinds of things did your family do together when you were young?

My father went swimming on Seven Mile beach every sunrise and every sunset – and although he couldn’t coax me out of bed early most days, my affinity for sunset swims have always been a favourite way to unwind from the stress of work or a bad day. We also had a ritual Sunday at The Beach Club where we enjoyed brunch and a full day playing on the beach and in the ocean. The Holiday Inn was also a favourite spot back in those days.

 

What schools did you attend?

I went to Catholic School from kindergarten through elementary and then the Cayman Islands Middle School. I left the island for High School, University, and Post Graduate School.

 

Who was your favourite teacher and why was he/she special?

My favourite teacher was Mrs. Phinney at Catholic School because she had such high energy and a contagious optimism. She believed in all of us and saw us through any challenges.

 

How do your fellow classmates from school remember you best?

They would probably say I stood by what I believed in and fought for the things that were important to me.

 

Do you have holiday traditions? What do you do for the holidays now?

The most celebrated holiday in my family is Christmas, because we all live in different countries now with varying holiday schedules, but we mostly convene over Christmas time to enjoy the nativity traditions. We always would drive around the island looking at Christmas lights and tour the Christmas parties for the best Egg nog!

 

What are some personal experiences that have especially touched your heart?

My father being named a hero for the medical profession in 2015.

 

Favourite flowers?

Poinciana trees are so beautiful, the streets wouldn’t be the same without them.

 

Favourite Cayman foods?

Ackee and saltfish, marinated conch and Cayman lobster.

 

Your best memory of growing up here:

Growing up in Snug Harbour riding my bike with my neighborhood friends, splashing in the puddles barefoot and exploring the undeveloped parts of the island.

 

Where is the best place to watch the sunset?

On a boat in the North Sound or on Seven Mile Beach – pretty mush anywhere!

 

Where is the most romantic place in the Cayman Islands?

The Lighthouse Restaurant for dinner on their deck.

 

How is Cayman different from what it was like when you were a child?

Cayman is much more open minded and accepting now. To me I see it evolving in a way that maximizes its historical strengths of humility and compassion while also integrating the strengths that the modern world can bring, such as creativity, knowledge, and experience.

 

By Lisa Beauchamp