“Continuous Shadow of Mother’s Breast Cancer”: Exploring the Voice of Daughters

Abstract

Purpose: Women whose mothers have been diagnosed with breast cancer are concerned about their mothers’ illness and fear developing cancer themselves. This study aims to understand daughters’ lived experiences after their mothers have been diagnosed with breast cancer in Taiwan. Method: In-depth interviews were conducted to understand the daughters’ emotional reactions to their mothers’ diagnoses, their challenges with taking care of their mothers, and their concerns or perceptions regarding their own risks of developing breast cancer. Themes were identified through a content analysis. Results: An analysis of 18 transcripts revealed six themes: “taking care of my mother is my responsibility”, “desiring sufficient information/support”, “feeling helplessness in providing care”, “expecting a cancer diagnosis in fear”, “anticipating a resolution other than surveillance”, and “worrying about myself is not a priority”. Conclusion: The daughters prioritized the responsibility of caring for their mothers physically and psychologically rather than managing their own cancer concerns. Health care professionals should be aware of these priorities to provide education regarding the care of high-risk populations and psychological support to the adult daughters.

Maternal Experiences of Parenting Young Children While Battling Breast Cancer in Taiwan

“…14 Such a belief may render mothers less motivated to communicate about an illness with their children. 15 Illness communication warrants investigation from a cultural perspective.…”