<p>The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of women living with multiple sclerosis and their perceived barriers to accessing physical activity. Seven women were invited to complete a background questionnaire and a semi-structured interview to discuss these experiences, and to examine any perceived barriers (i.e., internal and external) that they encountered in relation to physical activity. The key themes that emerged from the interpretive analysis were the apparent importance of: 1) self-management; 2) treatments; and 3) attitude, when accessing such opportunities. The findings suggest that it is important for physicians to understand the patient’s experience of living with multiple sclerosis and the impact of the disease can have on other aspects of their life (e.g., access to physical activity). Acknowledgement of this experience and the issues that these women struggle with on a daily basis could enhance the physician/patient relationship, and encourage a more collaborative effort in terms of establishing an illness management plan for navigating the illness journey.</p>

The purpose of this article is to describe the role of spirituality as a coping mechanism in the lives of parents of children with cancer. This exploratory study was conducted using a dominant-less dominant research design with phenomenology as the guiding theoretical orientation. Twelve parents (eight women and four men) were interviewed. Spirituality was described as playing a key role in the coping repertoire of these parents. In particular, spirituality's influence was described in both a religious and secularized manner with both aspects having a positive influence on coping behaviors among these parents. Health care professionals and nurses in particular have a role to play in facilitating access to spiritual resources as well as acknowledging and accepting the spiritual practices of the families they serve.

Results are discussed in terms of cultural comparisons to previous research studies evaluating college health behaviors. Suggestions are made for health professionals to incorporate gender differences in behavioral change programmes geared towards improving awareness of the consequences of lifestyle choices.

This is believed to be the first study looking at factors influencing physical activity participation in PD. Issues related to support for exercise from physicians and organisational issues of support groups for PD are discussed. Directions for future research are provided, which should aid in the identification of strategies to increase physical activity levels in those with PD.

Understanding the influence of hope in long-term recovery is important for health care practitioners and support systems to foster maximal recovery in survivors of stroke.