Being a surgeon and the mother of the very active and opinionated seven-yearold Marissa means that time and sleep are my biggest luxuries. Nevertheless, there are certain items that are just as necessary to keep my hectic and sometimes unpredictable schedule in some semblance of order while enjoying rare moments of relaxation.

My Apple iPad 2 allows me to organise my music collection in a portable form, which often makes those long operating lists seem so much shorter. In addition, there are numerous medical apps and texts that keep essential information at my fingertips. I won’t deny that I also have several games to help me relax after a long day. Meanwhile, my Nikon Coolpix camera is always handy to snap pictures of interesting cases and my daughter’s numerous activities and escapades.

I enjoy a night out whenever possible and I use this opportunity to glam up. My MAC eyeshadow, Body Shop lash gel and Dior Addict lipgloss are a must. Running is the most versatile form of exercise and works great for me. Therefore, my Asics Gel-Nimbus running shoes are an essential part of my shoe collection.

Reluctantly, I caved in and purchased my Digicel BlackBerry when my iPhone died. Now I cannot live without it. It organises my life totally! It reminds me of all my meetings, engagements and other commitments. I can effortlessly transfer and share information and pictures with colleagues worldwide and keep in touch with my family and friends via BBM. It has become my Necessary Luxury!