| [ Summary ] |
Self-help groups are groups of patients and their families which use voluntary ties between members to support one another to develop individual independence. For patients with renal failure and their families who have been confronting various long-lasting health problems, the existence of a self-help groups is of major significance as a third source of support, in addition to medical staffs and their families. We initiated a project in which we could listen to "illness narratives" of patients in conjunction with self-help groups associated with kidney disease patients. The project was a valuable learning opportunity for nurses and student nurses, and helped them to cultivate their sensibilities and ask themselves what deeper purposes nursing may provide. The project also allowed the individual patients and families who delivered the narratives to reflect back on the meaning of their experiences. Collaboration with self-help groups is an activity that should be continued to deepen mutual understanding between patients and nurses. |