Letters to My Body: Narratives of Post-Traumatic Growth Among Female Breast Cancer Survivors in Laguna
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.324Keywords:
Body Image, Breast Cancer Survivors, Cultural Resilience, Narrative Inquiry, Post-Traumatic Growth, SpiritualityAbstract
This study examines post-traumatic growth (PTG) as a lived and narrated experience among Filipina breast cancer survivors in Laguna, Philippines, emphasizing its cultural, gendered, and body-centered dimensions. Anchored in post-traumatic growth theory and narrative identity perspectives, the study adopts a qualitative narrative research design to explore how survivors construct meaning from their illness experiences. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with three purposively selected participants who had completed treatment and were in remission, and were analyzed using thematic narrative analysis. The findings reveal that PTG is shaped by interconnected resilience rooted in community support, spirituality, and cultural values. Survivors experienced a foundational shift in life perspective characterized by prioritizing relationships, accepting enduring physical changes, and engaging in advocacy. Their relationship with the body evolved from feelings of loss and betrayal to protective care and acceptance, while remaining accompanied by ongoing anxiety and vigilance. The five domains of PTG personal strength, new possibilities, relating to others, appreciation of life, and spiritual growth were consistently expressed across narratives. The study highlights the importance of culturally sensitive, narrative-based, and body-centered interventions, alongside community and family involvement, to support survivorship. It also emphasizes the need for long-term psychosocial care that acknowledges the coexistence of growth and vulnerability. This study aligns with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by addressing mental health, gendered experiences, and representation in research. The findings contribute to sustainability by supporting culturally responsive healthcare practices, strengthening community-based support systems, and informing policies that promote inclusive and holistic survivorship care.
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