Experiences with combining work and caregiving when a partner is seriously ill with cancer

Method: Our study had a qualitative design and we conducted 11 individual in-depth interviews with respondents from the Norwegian Cancer Society' s user panel.The respondents included were surviving partners (cohabitant or spouse) of cancer patients, who continued to work during their partner' s illness.As a methodological tool, we used thematic analysis -a method for identifying, analysing and describing patterns in qualitative data.Results: We identified three main themes: 1 Work limitations, 2 Joy from continuing to work and 3 Caring for partner while continuing to work.Participants faced various limitations that made it challenging to fully participate in the workforce.They also noted that it was important to be able to work in order to recharge and have a break.Few respondents mentioned financial problems, but several criticised current financial and non-financial support schemes.They stressed the importance of being able to care for and support their partner in practical and psychosocial terms, and in dealing with the health service. Conclusion:The descriptions in our study align well with previous findings: continuing to work while acting as a caregiver is complicated.While it is important to have a job to go to, many found that being there for their partner was even more valuable.However, many had a difficult time after their partner' s death, and several expressed a need for support schemes that were not available.