The experience of partners supporting adolescents and young adults with cancer

Aims In a larger study where the aim was to investigate choice and control in decision making, the role of partners was significant. Reported here are the experiences of those partners of young people with cancer. Design A qualitative, exploratory case study approach was used. Methods In the larger study, 22 participants were recruited including five adolescents and young adults with cancer, two sets of parents/carers and three individual parents, five healthcare professionals linked to the adolescent or young adult with cancer and five friends or partners. Data were collected between February 2014 and February 2015 and included interviews, non-participant observation and documentary analysis. Results Three themes were identified relating to partner experience derived from partner and patient interview data: "practical support", "putting your partner first" and "acting as a confidante/ally". Conclusion These findings reveal new knowledge of partner experience when adolescents and young adults have cancer. Richer in-depth understandings of partner experience are required to improve the care of adolescents and young adults with cancer and those around them. Impact These findings will inform the development of guidance and further research which will enhance the knowledge of partner experience for those involved in cancer care in the adolescent and young adult age group.