Experiences of men who commit to romantic relationships with younger breast cancer survivors: A qualitative study

ABSTRACT

This phenomenological study examined the experiences of men who committed to romantic relationships with women under 50, post–breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Twelve men from throughout the United States, who were dating their partner for at least 6 months, participated in semistructured interviews. Findings focused on initial disclosure timing, previous experience/knowledge about the cancer, reacting with acceptance despite concerns, focusing on love/connection, respecting and admiring the survivor, and the ongoing impact of cancer on the relationship. Clinical implications are discussed, highlighting the systemic effect that breast cancer may have on a couple even after treatment is completed.

KEYWORDS:

• breast cancer
• dating after breast cancer
• men dating breast cancer survivors
• romantic relationships after breast cancer
• transcendental phenomenology

Acknowledgments

I would like to acknowledge and thank the Young Survival Coalition. This research would not have been possible without your help. To the participants, both men and women, I acknowledge and thank you for sharing your powerful stories. I cannot emphasize enough how important your stories are and how inspired I was by hearing them, and by speaking with each of you. I wish you all happiness, health, and love.