The Complexity of Being a Parent in the Hospital and a Patient at Home

Abstract

Background Parents given a diagnosis of cancer must balance the demands of their illness and caregiving responsibilities. This can result in parental stress and have a negative impact on the well-being of the whole family. A greater understanding of the experiences of parents with cancer is necessary to provide adequate support. Objective The aim of this study was to explore parenting concerns and challenges among parents with cancer who were caring for dependent children younger than 18 years. Methods Semistructured interviews were carried out with 22 parents with cancer. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Parental concerns and challenges affected parents in their parental role and their everyday family life. Three overarching themes described the struggles in balancing life as a parent and as a patient: navigating dual roles as a parent with cancer, impact of cancer on parenting, and impact on family life. Parents’ primary focus was on their children’s well-being, and they struggled to manage their own expectations of parenting and the demands on their role in the family. Conclusion The results highlight the complexity of being a parent with cancer while caring for dependent children. To support parents during the cancer journey, it is important to understand the consequences of their illness on their parental role and the family. Implications for Practice Supporting parents to feel secure in their parental role and providing support to them during their cancer journey should be integrated into routine cancer care, where parenting concerns and challenges are addressed.