Chronic illnesses differ in their onset, course and outcome,
and therefore have different effects on individuals and
families (Rolland 1987). CHD has an acute onset, constant
course, and is now regarded as nonincapacitating and
nonfatal because of improved medical and surgical interventions.
Thus, in most cases, the parents and family system
must manage a less than normal child, at or soon after birth.
The caregiving demands for the parents are high in the earlier
stages of the illness because of various diagnostic procedures,
medical and surgical interventions, and restrictions on the
child’s growth and activities.