Information and support for co-survivors during or after cancer
treatment: Consideration of Un Abrazo Para la Familia as a model for
family-focused intervention in cancer rehabilitation
Affiliations: Center of Excellence in Women's Health, and Department
of Disability and Psychoeducational Studies, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ,
USA | Family Studies and Human Development, University of
Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA | Department of Human and Community Development,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA | Psychosocial Oncology Program, University of Arizona
Medical Center, Tucson, AZ, USA | Department of English, University of Arizona, Tucson,
AZ, USA | Pima County Health Department, Tucson, AZ, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Catherine A. Marshall, University of
Arizona, Box 210069, Tucson, AZ 85721-0069, USA. Tel.: +1 520 326 9555; Fax: +1
520 621 3821; E-mail: marshall@email.arizona.edu
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The development and evaluation of Un Abrazo Para La
Familia, [A Hug for the Family] is described. Un Abrazo is discussed as an
effective model of education, information-sharing, and skill-building for use
with low-income co-survivors of cancer. PARTICIPANTS: Sixty co-survivors participated. The majority were
women and all reported being Hispanic. METHODS: Using quantitative data (N=60), the needs, concerns, and
characteristics of the co-survivor population served through Un Abrazo are
presented. Further, we offer three qualitative case studies (with one
co-survivor, one survivor, and one non-participant) to illustrate the model and
its impact. RESULTS: The median level of education level of co-survivors was 12
years. The majority were unemployed and/or identified as homemakers, and
indicated receipt of services indicating low-income status. Half reported not
having health insurance. The top four cancer-related needs or concerns were:
Information, Concern for another person, Cost/health insurance, and Fears. CONCLUSIONS: Recognizing the centrality of the family in addressing
cancer allows for a wider view of the disease and the needs that arise during
and after treatment. Key rehabilitation strategies appropriate for intervening
with co-survivors of cancer include assessing and building upon strengths and
abilities and making culturally-respectful cancer-related information and
support accessible.
