Who Cares? Women with Breast Cancer and Their Significant Other

Abstract

The news comes. What was feared is now a reality. Devastation. The words “you”, “breast” and “cancer” echo throughout the room. What happens now? Who do you turn to? Nearly 3,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland on an annual basis. The above scenario for them is very much a reality. A diagnosis of cancer is devastating. It is not only the disease itself but the treatments, life alteration and in some cases acceptance of defeat that the person endures. With cancer it is rarely one individual who suffers. With breast cancer (one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Ireland) an invasion on the woman’s identity can occur, bringing great distress. The people who support women with breast cancer throughout the diagnosis and disease play a vital part in the maintenance of the woman’s wellbeing. It is human nature to seek out comfort from other people. The ...