title: Shared recovery: Couples' experiences after treatment for colorectal cancer.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Completing cancer treatment involves significant challenges for patients as well as their families. This study aimed to explore couples' experiences of colorectal (bowel) cancer, focusing on the transition after treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  Separate, semi-structured interviews were conducted within 12 months of completing treatment with a purposeful sample of ten participants, comprising five patient-partner dyads. Data were analysed using the Framework approach, incorporating dyadic analysis to compare narratives within as well as between couples.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Three main themes were elaborated: the process of recovery, the relationship dynamics, and the mixed experiences of healthcare services. The lasting impact of cancer following completion of treatment was evident for patients as well as their partners, and was shaped by their reciprocal influence on each other.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The findings underscore the value of a systemic approach for supporting couples during recovery from colorectal cancer and demonstrate the need for consistency of healthcare provision across the cancer trajectory, including post-treatment.
authors.affiliation: NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde, UK. Electronic address: naomi.white@ggc.scot.nhs.uk.
authors.forename: Naomi
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: White
authors.affiliation: School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, UK.
authors.forename: Emily
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Newman
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005191:Family Characteristics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020127:Recovery of Function; D006113:United Kingdom
keywords: Caregivers; Colorectal cancer; Health care; Qualitative