Being a Parent Again: The Gift of Home Healthcare to Mothers Caring for a Child With Cancer-A Qualitative Study

Caring for a child with cancer at home presents significant emotional and practical challenges. Pediatric home healthcare (HHC) services can offer vital support, yet little is known about parental experiences in Greece. Guided by Meleis' Transition Theory, this qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of seven mothers whose children received HHC from Floga, a pediatric oncology organization in Athens. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in April-May 2024, and data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis, supported by Atlas.ti. One overarching theme emerged: "Becoming a parent again thanks to HHC," capturing how HHC eased the transition from hospital to home by helping mothers reclaim their parental role. Two sub-themes illustrated this: (A) "Reintegration into life at home: returning to normality, a God-sent gift." highlighting restored routines, emotional relief, and trust in HHC nurses; and (B) "Emotional healing and managing fears through the 'hug' of HHC," describing lingering trauma and the sense of safety HHC provided. Mothers also identified unmet needs, including limited psychosocial support and staffing constraints. Overall, HHC enhanced family well-being; by offering emotional stability, practical assistance, and supportive transitions. Strengthening pediatric HHC in Greece will require greater investment in staffing, psychosocial resources, and equitable access.