“The worst experienceâ€: The experience of grandparents who have a grandchild with cancer

Sylvie Charlebois, Louise Bouchard

Abstract


This study explored the experience of eight grandparents having a grandchild diagnosed with cancer. Semi-structured interviews, both with individuals and couples, were used to gain a better understanding of the meaning these grandparents give to this experience. A thematic analysis based on Giorgi’s (1997) phenomenological method highlighted three central themes: “Living the worst experienceâ€, “Having to support: A crucial role for grandparentsâ€, “To feel supported to better carry on.†The results of this study can contribute to enhancing the quality of care for grandparents affected by their grandchild’s cancer.


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