Table 2.

Overview of the categories and subcategories identified in the study with the example of codes and condensed meaning units

Example of condensed meaning units	Example of codes	Subcategories	Categories
I am not able to do activities that I used to do. When I do little activities, I become tired and need rest.	Decreased physical activities Fatigue and low energy	Physical restrictions	Family daily life
I am afraid of being alone. I was worried what would happen to me. I do not have idea and motivation for the future like before.	Patient’s fear Anxiety Hopeless	Emotional distress
I cannot go rolling coaster with my children. I avoid crowed places.	Decrease joint activities Social isolation	Social limitation
I have nobody to help me; you cannot ask for help at all times.	Patient’s fear of losing independency	Fear of becoming dependent	Process of independence
I do not collaborate with heart association because it gives me a feeling of being ill. I do not feel that I am ill.	Avoiding sick roles Normalisation	Facing dependency
They (family members) always tell me to take rest, but I have no problem to do some stuff.	Difficulty in communication Overprotective behaviour	Strained relationship	Family relationships
The illness made our family closer. She (wife) started to love me so much.	Good communication Positive effect of illness on relationships	Strengthened relationship