Dr. Natalie Sharpe is a highly respected specialist physician in the field of oncology, with a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for patients facing advanced illnesses. Her journey into medicine began at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York. There, she obtained her degree in biochemistry and developed a passion for understanding the intricate workings of the human body.
After graduating from Vassar in 2001, Dr. Sharpe gained valuable experience as a research assistant at Columbia University, contributing to the early study of the breast cancer susceptibility genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2. Her lab work focused on how these genes interact with other oncogenes to lead to the development of breast cancer. This research experience solidified her interest in pursuing a career in medicine, but she felt a calling to return to her Caribbean roots. In 2006, Dr. Sharpe made the decision to move back home and embark on the rigorous journey of medical school at the University of the West Indies (UWI).
At UWI, Dr. Sharpe excelled academically and developed a keen interest in the complex and evolving fields of Hematology and Medical Oncology which led her to choose this as her specialty. During this time she committed to improving patient outcomes through staying up to date with emerging treatments and international best practices, compassionate care, and ongoing support throughout the cancer journey.
It was during her oncology practice that Dr. Sharpe recognized the profound need for compassionate, patient-centered care that goes beyond treating the disease—this realization sparked her passion for palliative care, which she believes is an essential complement to modern oncology.
To further specialize in this critical area, Dr. Sharpe sought out advanced training and education. She completed a certification course with Harvard Medical School, where she was exposed to the latest in palliative care practices and principles. Her education was further enriched by a clinical stint at the University of Colorado in Denver, where she gained hands-on experience in providing palliative care to patients with complex medical needs.
Dr. Sharpe treats patients with all types of cancer, but one of her passions remains the management of breast cancer, a field closely tied to her early research work. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Sharpe is a dedicated educator and mentor, committed to training the next generation of healthcare professionals in oncology and palliative care. She is actively involved in initiatives that raise awareness about the importance of palliative care and is a vocal advocate for policy changes that support the integration of these services into the national healthcare framework.
Beyond her professional life, Dr. Sharpe is a devoted mother to two energetic young boys who keep her on her toes. She cherishes the time she spends with them, often at the beach, where they enjoy the natural beauty of Cayman’s coastline. Dr. Sharpe believes that this balance between her demanding career and her family life is essential to her well-being and provides her with the perspective and motivation to continue her work in oncology.
Dr. Natalie Sharpe is not just a physician; she is a compassionate leader and advocate for the holistic care of patients with advanced illnesses. Her approach emphasizes open communication, helping patients and their loved ones navigate complex medical decisions while ensuring that care aligns with the patient’s values and goals. Dr. Sharpe firmly believes that this type of patient-centered care for cancer is essential for achieving the best survival and quality of life outcomes. Her dedication to her patients, her community, and her family makes her a standout figure in the field of oncology in the Caribbean and beyond.
