Abstract
This study aimed to describe the experiences of parents whose children require daily in-home medical care. Additionally, it examined their perception of what it means to be a parent, and their sense of self. A semi-structured interview was conducted with five parents using a qualitative- inductive method. Thirteen categories were extracted: (1) my child understands things and may has thoughts and wishes, so I want to better understand him/her; (2) I see that my child is growing and is in a good physical state, but I wonder if my child's development is positive or negative; (3) if my child is happy, then so am I, but if my child is sad, then I am too; (4) the meaning that I defined has changed and expanded; (5) that was really tough; (6) my family and the people who understand and extend a helping hand to us are connected; (7) circumstances often do not turn out as expected, and people behave in unpredictable ways; (8) I consider each of my family members, and I feel that we spend time with our family; (9) I live in the present moment, because I think that it is good for me, to be myself. The parents gained a sense of self through bonding with their children. The results of this study suggest that parents whose children require daily in-home medical care need support to feel a sense of self from their experiences.
