Title

LIVED EXPERIENCES OF RESILIENCE AMONG BREAST CANCER
PATIENTS: A PHOTOVOICE STUDY

Author(s)

AGUSTIN, JOSHUA PAUL D.

BROBO, SILVANO II K.

CALIBO, BEA GWENETH S.

ABADIA, ZAIRA JOANNA ROSZARIE MARIE

Affiliation

Misamis University

Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Contributor

Taghoy, Sammy B.

Elmedulan, Ginalyn C.

Tojino, Amie G.

Robles, Chona J.

Year

2025

Abstract

Breast cancer poses not only physical challenges but also significant emotional, psychological, and social burdens. Building resilience plays a crucial role in coping with breast cancer, enabling patients to recover from difficulties and adapt positively to their circumstances. This study explored and described the experiences of resilience among patients diagnosed with breast cancer in Misamis Occidental, Philippines. A qualitative approach was utilized, specifically Photovoice, a participatory method that combines photography and narrative reflection. The participants of the study were four women diagnosed with breast cancer selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Participants used photography to capture images representing their personal experiences of resilience, and in-depth interviews were conducted using the SHOWeD technique. The “SHOWeD” questions were used to gain deeper insight into how social, cultural, and contextual factors intersect with the phenomenon of interest. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The study revealed four main hemes: social, self-directive, adaptive, spiritual, and celebratory resilience. These findings suggest that resilience is not merely the absence of struggle, but a dynamic and evolving process shaped by cultural beliefs, social support, faith, and inner strength. Moments such as enduring treatment, praying, or completing therapy marked their journey toward healing and self-redefinition. By capturing the essence of resilience through visual and narrative expressions, the study offers insights that can inform future psychosocial support programs for breast cancer patients. A holistic approach addressing psychological, emotional, and social dimensions is essential for promoting positive outcomes.

Keywords

breast cancer, lived experiences, photovoice, resilience, thematic analysis