“I don’t have a choice but to keep getting up and doing the things that protect her”: The informal caregiver’s adaptation to the cancer diagnosis

Abstract

Purpose Patients with hematologic malignancies (HM) typically rely on informal caregivers for support. Caregivers experience distress, poorer health, and lower quality of life. This study aimed to understand caregivers’ experiences adapting to, and making meaning of, their family members’ cancer diagnosis and treatment. Approach Qualitative, constructivist approach. Participants Caregivers (N = 28) of patients with HM within three months of diagnosis. Methods A descriptive content analysis was used to analyze semi-structured interview responses and generate themes. Findings Six themes emerged: power and control (powerlessness, empowerment, relinquishing control/accepting help), protection (gatekeeping, protective buffering), integrating the diagnosis, tolerating uncertainty, preparedness for the caregiver role, and maintaining positivity. Conclusions Findings highlight challenges and resilience-promoting processes for caregivers adapting to HM diagnosis and treatment. Implications for Psychosocial Providers Psychological and supportive care interventions can promote acceptance of the diagnosis, preparation for caregiving, navigation of power and control, and targeted coping strategies.