Dr Louise Walker

Dr Louise Walker is a clinical oncologist with a particular interest in supportive and palliative care. She graduated from Stellenbosch University in 2009 and worked in oncology at Grey's Hospital for over a decade. During this time, she completed a master's degree in Palliative Medicine through Cardiff University, earning a distinction for her thesis on breaking bad news across cultures.

Alongside her clinical work, Louise has contributed to research, teaching and postgraduate supervision in both oncology and specialist-level palliative care, with a focus on communication, cancer pain management and improving access to care in resource-constrained settings. She was a founding member of PALPRAC, South Africa's association for palliative care practitioners, and later served as its Vice Chair.

Louise combines evidence-based cancer treatment with careful attention to symptom control, treatment side effects and quality of life. Her clinical interests include breast and gynaecological cancers, cancer in older adults, incurable cancers and the psychological and practical challenges of living with cancer.

She values honest, compassionate conversations and takes time to understand what matters to each patient and their family. She believes that helping people understand their illness and treatment options—and supporting them as their needs change—is central to good cancer care. She enjoys working collaboratively with colleagues across the healthcare team.

Outside work, Louise enjoys running, spending time with her family and young daughter and trying to keep her energetic golden retriever out of trouble. As Den Scouter for the 1st Waterfall Meerkats (a section of Scouts SA), she enjoys helping five- and six-year-olds explore the outdoors and develop life skills through fun activities.