| Abstract: | The study used secondary data analysis to explore cancer patients' illness experiences during a listening group intervention. Participants were 12 patients (age range 22 to 62 years in age; males = 4; females = 8). Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Analysis of the data yielded twelve prevalent themes namely, support, perspectives and experiences in medical context, perspectives on life and death, emotional experiences, religiosity, role of knowledge and information pertaining to cancer, finances, concern for others, loss, desire for survival, humour, and physical symptoms. A framework suggesting possible moderating factors that could influence cancer patients' illness experiences and outcomes are proposed. The results of the study emphasise how stressful and complex living with cancer can be. However, many cancer patients developed alternative perspectives on life which also seem to bring about personal growth. It is suggested that further research regarding the development of a survivorship care programme within the South African context be undertaken. |
