Making meaning after a cancer diagnosis: The adult's experience of surviving pediatric cancer A narrative inquiry.

摘要

This Narrative Inquiry qualitative study elucidates the life experience of adults diagnosed with cancer in childhood. The survivor is able to retrieve memories, thoughts, beliefs, and provide interpretations that held meaning for him. These interpretations are then formulated to provide information for future interventions or programs that may influence future treatment in the psychological arena. Participants were 5–15 years of age at diagnosis, and 20–40 years of age at time of the interview. Six participants were identified, and then provided with a demographic questionnaire and guiding questions. The following themes were extrapolated from the restoried interviews: (1) internal conflict, (2) grief and loss, (3) expectations, (4) reflection, (5) mindfulness, and (6) resilience through spirituality and community. The study concluded that being informed on all aspects was important, but facets of resilience and grief and loss were more significant to all interviewed. Participants relied upon primary support systems to model their own sense of resilience, and from that create new meaning regarding quality of life they pursued. In the same manner, the experience of grief and loss allowed for participants to reflect. It was through the process of telling their story that participants were able to convey their understanding of their illness, further develop their self-identity, and manage their own anxiety and loss.