Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the experience of mothering a three to six year old child with hemiparesis. A review of the literature revealed that mothering is a common experience that represents a connection between a woman and her child. When women become mothers, the focus of their lives, for most of them, shifts to mothering their child. ;A phenomenological approach using Colaizzi's descriptive methodology was used. Using phenomenological methodology allowed the researcher to describe the experience from the perspective of those who have experienced the phenomenon. The participants were five biological mothers of children aged three to six who were diagnosed with hemiparesis following a stroke. The children were considered mildly to moderately disabled and required two to three therapies such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy or special education. ;In depth, face to face interviews were conducted, audio-taped, and transcribed verbatim. Using Colaizzi's method for data analysis, the following six themes emerged: "Mothers' Way to Know", "Being Blown Away", "Gradual Awakening to an Uncertain Future", "Fiercely Advocating for My Child", "Living in a Middle World", and "A Heart Filled with Joy and Sorrow". ;The fundamental structure of the mothering experience was characterized as: the mother knew that something was wrong with her child; after her suspicions were confirmed, the mother was devastated by the news; the mother became fierce in her advocacy for her child and armed herself with information to help her child; the mother had a slow awakening to the impact her child's diagnosis would have on his/her future, and realized over time, the permanence of the diagnosis; the mother felt that she did not belong with mothers whose children were typically developing, nor with mothers whose children were severely disabled, and so she sought connections with others she thought would understand; the mother experienced fluctuating, sometimes conflicting, emotions of joy and sorrow