Taiwanese fathers' experiences following the death of a child to cancer.

Abstract

This study descried the experiences of fathers who had lost a child to cancer. The participants were eight fathers whose children died following cancer treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and content analysis identified six major themes: (1) accompanying their child on the final journey home, (2) stabilizing family life, (3) coping with unbearable grief, 4) maintaining the memory and continuing the bond, (5) reflecting on the regrets and contradictions of the treatment process, (6) finding new meaning, and cherishing the present. The findings illustrated that these fathers, despite facing the death of their children, still prioritized family stability and used restoration-oriented strategies for their own emotions. However, these fathers also need outlets to express their feelings, making continuous psychological support from healthcare professionals essential throughout the grieving process.