1. 'I Just Miss Her. I Just Need Her Here.' Life After a Mother's Cancer.
- Author
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Molinaro, Monica, Bryden, Pamela, and Fletcher, Paula
- Subjects
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PARENTAL death , *WIDOWHOOD , *HOPE , *INTERVIEWING , *PHENOMENOLOGY , *RESEARCH methodology , *PATIENT-family relations , *QUESTIONNAIRES , *QUALITATIVE research , *THEMATIC analysis , *EXTENDED families , *FAMILY attitudes , *PSYCHOLOGY ,TUMORS & psychology - Abstract
The purpose of this research was to examine the lived experience of a family unit that lost their spouse/mother/sister-in-law to cancer. A phenomenological case study was used to guide this research. Four participants, or one family unit consisting of one spouse, one daughter, one son, and one sister-in-law to the deceased, were recruited from Southern Ontario. Background questionnaires and one-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with each family member. The following themes emerged: (1) Negatives and (2) Silver Linings. This paper only addresses the theme 'Silver Linings'; the first theme was addressed in Part I of this research. Within the theme 'Silver Linings,' there were two sub-themes: (1) '...She was remarkable' and (2) Hope for the future. Each will be discussed in turn. Overall, the research study revealed some silver linings that may come from a diagnosis of cancer in a family unit. The family found it difficult to find positives in the loss of their loved one; however, they were able to acknowledge that they have a heightened appreciation for others. This research study provides insight regarding the lived experiences of families coping with the cancer journey of a loved one. It may allow readers to develop a greater sense of appreciation for their health and family members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2017
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