Navigating Uncharted Territory: Experiences of Families when a Child is Dying

Abstract

In this grounded theory study, eight families moved through a process of navigating uncharted territory as they lived with their child who was dying from a neurodegenerative illness. The emotions of fear, uncertainty, and grief gave impetus to the process. Families lived much of their lives on Plateaus of relative stability, where they often felt alone and isolated from health care professionals. Periods of instability led to families dropping off the Plateau. Living with a dying child had profound physical, emotional, and financial effects on families. The process was characterized by four dimensions. Parents used strategies within these dimensions to manage the physical, cognitive, and emotional work arising from the situation. These dimensions and strategies were constrained and facilitated by four intervening conditions. In addition, the process occurred within the broader context of the acute, curative health care system and the sociocultural environment. Suggestions for practice and research are offered to assist health care professionals in providing optimal care to these families.