Date of Award

4-8-2012

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Committee: Rebecca Upton

Second Advisor

Pamela Propsom

Third Advisor

Marnie McInnes

Abstract

Thave chosen to focus this analysis on the shared experiences of patients with the socially stigmatized and incurable illnesses of cancer and HIV. These people cannot have their patient experience ended by a nice little pill or vaccine. They must blindly put their hopes in painful treatment regimens that can offer only management of their condition. They often undergo the tremendously helpless experience of feeling one’s body decline. As their treatment or the illness itself progresses they must enlist the help of family and friends to help them with daily tasks. Obviously the shared experiences of these two patient populations are not amicable experiences, but this is the grim reality of disease. Another part of this illness experience is embodied in the perception of the illness in society. In the case of these two illnesses, both carry a level of social stigma but not to the same degree. Cancer, while being no easier physical patient experience, appears to be more widely accepted by society. Those suffering from HIV find society hostile toward them, as assumptions are made about their sexuality and extracurricular activities. The greater whole gives love and support to those facing cancer while those suffering from HIV receive shuns of disapproval. These experiences with society are a large part of the patient experience that is completely lost in accounts of patienthood that focus solely on the patient within the medical setting. I hope this analysis of the experiences shared by individuals with illness will resonate with those who are well | purposely gave the voices of patients a place of importance because I believe healthy people could learn much from these experiences if they allow themselves to listen. As you read through these stories, I hope you will also acess your personal feelings toward those who are ill. Health and wellness cannot be guaranteed in life, Therefore these stories do not represent some completely improbable reality you may face. | hope people will read this project and see the humanity inherent in liness, rather than shame and defeat.

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