Treatment for childhood lymphoma : the fathers’ perspective

To address the lack of psycho-social research focusing specifically on childhood Lymphoma, this paper considers the factors unique to Lymphoma as compared with other paediatric haematological disorders and how this impacts upon the experience and coping strategies of fathers of this group. A five year longitudinal study was conducted that explored the treatment experience for families coping with haematological disorders (including six families with a child with Lymphoma). Important issues highlighted by fathers of Lymphoma children includedemotional issues such as the denial of emotions, the use of humour as a mechanism for dealing with stresses of the situation, the valuing of positive relationships with treating doctors and nurses, dealing with relationship issues (including a desire not to express accessing amenities and meals) and work related issues. The research is important in establishing that, despite the similarities, there are key differences that distinguish the experience of Lymphoma fathers from that of families with children with other haematological malignancies that have implications for the provision of care and support.