‘Living in parallel worlds’ – bereaved parents’ experience of family life when a parent with dependent children is at end of life from cancer: A qualitative study

Background: When a parent of dependent children (<18 years old) is at end life from cancer, this has profound impact on the family. Children less prepared for death are more susceptive to poorer psychosocial adjustment in later life. There lack understanding literature surrounding what support parents require, and how they navigate experience. Aim: To explore bereaved parents’ experience needs families when cancer with children. Design: In-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted 21 mothers fathers, identified general public, family service hospice. Data analysed thematically. Results: Parents often live ‘parallel worlds’ throughout period. In one world, ‘living moment’, cherishing ordinariness life, remaining hopeful treatment will prolong whilst adapting as illness unfolds. The other world presents ‘intermitted glimpses that approaching’, shadowed painful emotional concerns their future. At end, rapidly approaches, characterised suddenly ‘falling off cliff’; placing significant demands well-parent. Conclusions: Amidst challenges, clinicians should provide clear information poor prognosis, so can plan prepare parental death. need healthcare professionals engage, encourage equip parents, inevitable parent.