Testing an Intervention to Foster Hope for Cancer Survivors With Lymphedema

This mixed methods pilot study builds on completed interviews with 13 participants in 2012 (Study 1, S1) and delivery of a community-based intervention to 13 participants in 2013 (over 2 days; Study 2, S2). The proposed research draws on these two studies, S1 (REB#H-05-12-04) and S2 (REB#H-05-12-04B), both of which were approved by the uOttawa REB. S2 included the same intervention as the one proposed herein, but in a compressed format. It was delivered in Ottawa, with positive feedback received from all 13 participants.

Administration of the intervention will draw upon the team members' expertise (Hamilton, Hack) with interventions for people with cancer, a program of research in hope interventions, and Thomas' work with women with breast cancer related LE as well as S1 and S2. The intervention will follow a group-based workshop format. The intervention workshops will be offered weekly over 8 sessions (2 hours per session, one per week). After an introductory workshop, the second session will involve viewing the video, created by PI Thomas interviewing men and women who have lymphedema and group discussion of its themes, based on the principles of video modelling (e.g., how do participants' experiences, hope strategies compare?). This is an approach used successfully in other areas of research with marginalized peoples.

Our program will follow Herth's theoretical foundations and goals (e.g., identifying support systems, developing plans to maintain hope in the future) along with established approaches to supportive care in chronic illnesses and LE international best practice guidelines. Briefly, workshops include modules addressing the building of a supportive community; orienting to hope and identifying threats to hope/coping; positive self-talk and affirmations; creative practices for exploring experiences and hope; and identifying and mobilizing resources. The modules also incorporate the completion and discussion of creative projects (e.g., writing exercises), mini-lectures by rehabilitation professionals, and SLC resources. All of these components were reviewed positively (satisfactory or above) by the majority of participants in S2. All activities are drawn from Herth's intervention, prior research, and the success of S2. This content was approved by the uOttawa REB, as noted previously. Four questionnaires administered to the IG/CG will be used to assess the potential impact of the intervention. Please see Study Protocol for summary of data collection.

SUMMARY OF QUESTIONNAIRES

1. The Meaning of Illness Questionnaire, (MIQ) Factor II and IV: Factor II addresses loss, stress, and function. Factor IV addresses hope as well as positive attitude and motivation. These 2 factors will be used to screen participants prior to the study.