The Bricoleur: Re-choreographing lives, rewriting the master script. The phenomenon of mothering as described by Mothers of children living with spastic cerebral palsy

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the phenomenon of mothering a child with spastic cerebral palsy through the lens of the Mother. The study is situated within an Australian, regional environment. Methodology: The methodology underpinning this inquiry was that of Descriptive Phenomenology in the tradition of Edmund Husserl. Method: Information was gathering through the use of face-to-face interviews complemented by the use of photo, olfactory, tactile elicitations, and the use of soundscapes. Building on the works of Edwards and Welch (2011) an extension of Colaizzi’s (1978) method of data analysis (1978) informed the analysis process. Results: Ten themes were explicated through the process of analysis: Phoenix arising; Normality; Facing the abyss; Keeping all the balls in the air; Struggling with Self-identity; Being judged and disempowered; The imposition of the medical model; Being re-traumatised; On a positive note, and, Letting it all out. Conclusion: This study revealed a spectrum of positive, negative, and cathartic experiences. The cathartic process, achievements of mothers, and acknowledgement of their dedication to raising their child, are highlighted within this research. Implications and recommendations in relation to clinical practice, policy review, and future research are presented for addressing issues of concern arising from the study. Priority recommendations include changes to policy perspectives and audit recommendations for NDIS and enhancing the role of Nurse Navigators. Recommendations for future research include new methods in working with vulnerable populations and sensitive information and further implementation of the novel Distress- Redirect, Opt-out Protocol (DROP).