'Managing an unexpected life-a caregiver's career': Parents' experience of caring for their child with a non-malignant life-limiting condition

Parents of children with non-malignant life-limiting conditions frequently accept roles that exceed the conventional activities of parenting in relation to the intensity, complexity and temporal nature of the family caregiver experience. This paper explores the prevalent and all-consuming experiences of parents caring for their children. A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Twenty-three parents (both mothers and fathers) were interviewed. Transcribed interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis. 'Managing an unexpected life' was the central concept when parents recounted ongoing efforts to address the emotional and practical effects of their child's condition on their life and that of their family. Analysis revealed three main distinct but interrelated themes within the concept of 'Managing an unexpected life' helping us enhance our understanding of parents' experiences: 'Striving for normality', 'Becoming the expert' and 'Fighting for your child'. Findings suggest that the central concept of 'Managing an unexpected life' appeared to be in keeping with a caregiver's career. Findings likewise suggest the need for improved and focused support and services to enhance parents' career caregiving.