Simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplantation: A qualitative study of partners' experiences

Chronic health conditions often affect the lives of family members as well as the patient themselves. The current study aimed to explore the experiences of partners of individuals with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD) who received a simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplant (SPKT) to understand the wider impact of SPKTs. Eight partners of recipients of SPKT were interviewed about their experiences before and after the transplant. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Participants described how they navigated life with an unwell partner; sub-themes included a) living with pervasive worry, b) the challenge of enhanced responsibilities, and c) the buffering effect of social support. Diabetes complications, such as the experience of severe hypoglycaemia, particularly fuelled worry. Participants felt great relief after their partner's successful transplant but also faced certain realities around the potential for their partner's health to deteriorate again. The study highlights the impact of diabetes and CKD on patients' families and the wider benefit of transplantation, not just for the patient. The pancreas transplant, in addition to the kidney, relieved partners of their worry about hypoglycaemic events and the development of diabetes complications. Partners may benefit from being encouraged to seek support and to maintain their own health and wellbeing.