RURAL FATHERS’ EXPERIENCES OF LOSS IN DAY-TO-DAY LIFE WITH CHRONICALLY ILL CHILDREN

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative study was to gain insight into the experiences of fathers living with their chronically ill children in rural Australia. Data were collected via unstructured interviews with four fathers. Analysis followed the procedural steps for phenomenological data as outlined by Colaizzi (1978). Fathers described their experience of living with their chronically ill child as being filled with progressive losses for themselves and their child, including loss of: 1) pre-conceived expectations of future life; 2) a normal parenting relationship with their child; 3) normal partner relationship; and, 4) control of time and freedom. Findings contribute to knowledge and understanding of the complex nature of fathering a chronically ill child in rural Australia.