Haematology and oncology chose me

While Natasha Nunan’s professional journey has been shaped by knowledge, experience, and opportunity, it’s ultimately driven by a deep desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Natasha Nunan (44) lives in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal with her husband and two children.

Sowing seeds early on

It was in high school that the seeds of Natasha’s nursing path were sown. She volunteered as a caregiver at a government hospital and assisted in many community health drives. “This exposed me to the realities of patient care and the difficulties in healthcare access. These early moments confirmed my calling,” she says. 

After matric, she attained a Bachelor of General Nursing and Nursing Management, Midwifery and Psychiatry, with an honours degree. She broadened her global perspective as an exchange student at the University of Jönköping in Sweden. 

“Working across various clinics and hospitals there expanded my clinical insight and deepened my appreciation for holistic, patient-centred care. I had the privilege to be part of several oncology learning programmes, and this fed my hunger to explore and learn more about this fraternity. It sparked my passion for haematology and oncology,” she says.

Haematology and oncology chose me

Reflecting on her career path, Natasha says, “I’ve come to see this field not just as a profession, but as a space where I’m able  to fulfil my purpose. Caring for patients with complex blood disorders and cancers requires more than clinical skill; it demands empathy, resilience, and the ability to support them through their most vulnerable moments.”

Her early career included two years where she worked across various paediatric specialty units. 

When she relocated to Durban, she spent five years as a chemotherapy nurse in an oncology clinic. 

She then advanced into a leadership role as an oncology unit manager where she served for over five years, developing both managerial and clinical leadership capabilities.

“Continuing to grow within the field, I spent six years working alongside a renowned haematologist as a chemotherapy nurse, authorisations personnel, and stem cell transplant co-ordinator. This role allowed me to engage deeply with complex patient cases and multi-disciplinary care co-ordination.”

Seeking broader insight into healthcare systems, she transitioned into managed care at a medical scheme institution for five years. She advanced from case manager to senior case manager to peer review oncology case manager. She earned a certification as a trainer, solidifying her passion for education and professional development.

Missing direct patient interaction and clinical practice led her back to the field as a practice manager and clinical trial nurse.

Empowering fellow nurses

Today Natasha isn’t only driven to care for patients, but to uplift and empower the nursing community. “I aspire to use my skills, knowledge, and experience to advance the profession through education, mentorship, and training. By doing so, I hope to inspire confidence in others, strengthen clinical practice, and ultimately improve patient outcomes within this highly-specialised field.”

Natasha explains that as a nurse, she serves as a steady constant, offering not only medical care, but clarity, reassurance, and human connection.

She adds that her foundation is built on science, engaging daily with the complexities of haematologic and oncologic conditions which require precision, vigilance, and a commitment to evidence-based practice. 

“I recognise that each diagnosis carries a personal story, and I approach every patient encounter with attentiveness, empathy, and respect for their individual journey.”

Driven by purpose

Natasha’s purpose is to make a meaningful difference where it matters most. “This is reflected in how I listen, advocate, and respond when fear and uncertainty arise. I don’t see care as a series of tasks, but as a relationship built on trust. In this role, I become both guide and supporter, helping patients navigate not only their treatments, but the emotional weight that accompanies them.”

Changing the perception of haematology

“I recognise that haematology is often perceived as complex and intimidating, and my role is to help transform that perception. Through mentorship, shared knowledge, and encouragement, I aim to empower  fellow nurses to engage with this specialty confidently. I believe that when nurses understand the reasoning behind care decisions, they practice with greater confidence, safety, and impact.”

Colours on canvas

As a creative outlet, Natasha paints. “It’s my outlet of built emotions that I release in colours on canvas. Painting can do something words often can’t. It translates emotion into something visible and tangible. The idea of releasing feelings through colour allows me an escape into a peaceful tranquil space.”

Header images supplied