Parental interest in a bereavement support visit when a child dies from cancer

Jennifer Greene Welch, Margaret M. Mannix, Julie Boergers, Elissa Jelalian, Fred Barbosa, Hanae Fujii-Rios, Edwin N. Forman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

Parents who have experienced the death of a child from cancer have unique bereavement needs. This study evaluated the possibility of instituting a home-based bereavement visit from the oncology team following a child's death. Parents completed a brief anonymous questionnaire measuring preferences regarding visit logistics and content. The majority (84%) of the 31 participants agreed that a home-based bereavement program is desirable. Qualitative analysis of parental comments revealed common themes including processing grief, practical suggestions for visit, recognition of individual differences, perceived risks and benefits of visit, connections with medical staff, and unmet needs for support. In conclusion, a home visit program may satisfy needs for additional support while alleviating barriers to other types of bereavement care.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)335-346
Number of pages12
JournalOmega: Journal of Death and Dying
Volume65
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Jan 2012
Externally publishedYes

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