Six interviews were analysed together by the first and last
authors to achieve trustworthiness. Throughout the entire
analysis, discussions between the four authors were held
regularly. The computer program QSR NVIVO 2 (QSR
International Pty Ltd, Doncaster, Victoria, Australia) was
used for initial coding and categorising. Subthemes from the
patients’, partners’ and couples’ perspective will be presented
in the results. Similarities and differences between partners
and patients will be highlighted as well as individual
similarities and differences in the couples.