Lived Experience of Mothers Having a Child Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in Mauritius: A Phenomenological Study

Since there is no existing qualitative study on Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in Mauritius, this study was undertaken to explore the lived experience of mothers having a child with T1D in Mauritius.

This research work used a phenomenological approach with the interview of a purposeful sample of eleven mothers having a child diagnosed with T1D. Data collected was analyzed by two independent investigators. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Department of Medicine Ethics Committee of the University of Mauritius.

The emerging themes were 'Facing disruption in life', 'Experiencing mixed feelings', 'Taking matters in hands' and 'Coping with life'. They put forward the four major components of the lived experience of being the mother of a child diagnosed with T1D. 3 to 4 minor themes.

The study shows that diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes in a child has a profound psychosocial impact on mother's personal, family and professional lives. There is need to support parents in the delivery of optimal care to their child to avoid unpredictable complications and unnecessary loss of lives.

Both nurses and doctors should be aware of their crucial role in demonstrating empathy towards parents/children affected by T1D. There is a need for training programs to develop a culture where empathy enhances nursing and medical practice.