THE EXPERIENCES OF COPING WITH ILLNESS AND THE ESSENCE OF BUDDHIST PRINCIPLES APPLIED DURING ILLNESS BY PATIENTS WITH ADVANCED-STAGE COLORECTAL CANCER

Abstract

This research aimed to explore the experience of coping with illness among patients with advanced colorectal cancer and the essence of Buddhist principles applied during illness. This is a qualitative study, with key informants consisting of 22 patients with advanced colorectal cancer who participated in a project promoting quality of life through the Buddhist Way. The research tools included in-depth interviews. Data were collected from interviews, observations, and visitation records. The data were analyzed using content analysis and the credibility of the data was evaluated based on Lincoln and Guba's criteria. The research findings of the study revealed two main themes, including 1) Patients confronting their advanced colorectal cancer, which involved: 1.1) Learning to live with an incurable illness characterized by severe illness, low survival chances, prolonged and continuous treatment, and the need for financial resources; 1.2) Coping with life changes: physically, mentally, and in terms of daily living; and 1.3) Caring for the body and mind to better cope with the illness by adjusting diet and social life, finding answers about life and illness, and healing the mind; and 2) Alleviating suffering during illness with Buddhist principles, which involved: 2.1) Starting with the heart, having faith and belief, and being open to learning, 2.2) Adhering to Buddhist principles: the Three Characteristics and the law of karma, and 2.3) Using Buddhist principles and perspectives to alleviate the suffering of individuals from different religions, included the concept of the Three Characteristics: the truths of life and engaging in good deeds according to the patients’ respective religious teachings.