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Western Journal of Nursing Research, Vol. 28, No. 3, 265-289 (2006)
DOI: 10.1177/0193945905283178

The Meaning of Living With Spinal Cord Injury 5 to 10 Years After the Injury

Susan DeSanto-Madeya

University of Massachusetts–Boston

A phenomenological study was conducted with 20 spinal cord injured persons and their family members to examine the meaning of living with spinal cord injury 5 to 10 years after the initial injury. Seven themes emerged from the data. The themes are looking for understanding to a life that is unknown, stumbling along an unlit path, viewing self through a stained glass window, challenging the bonds of love, being chained to the injury, moving forward in a new way of life, and reaching normalcy. The uncovered meanings enhance our understanding and appreciation that living with spinal cord injury is a continuous learning experience. The study findings may be useful in the development of self-care strategies and ongoing interventions that focus on maintaining physical and psychological health for both spinal cord injured persons and their family members throughout the course of living with the disability.

Key Words: spinal cord injury • phenomenology • meaning • experience • family


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