Caring for a child with a stoma may have its challenges at times but the good news is that you are not alone. Many children are born in Australia each year with conditions requiring the formation of a stoma, and almost all grow up to lead full and satisfying lives.
Select a quick link for access to:
- Official support groups for children living with bowel and bladder related conditions
- Health Articles for Kids
- About the Gastronauts - Ostomate Puppets for Kids
Official support groups for children living with bowel and bladder related conditions
Many parents find it beneficial to join a support group for children suffering either bowel or bladder related problems. Following are some links to a few official support group websites:
The Bowel Group for Kids (BGK)
Health Articles for Kids (reproduced from past issues of "Ostomy Australia", courtesy QLD Colostomy Association
The Gastronauts
The Gastronauts are a group of puppets with the same gifts and failings as their human counterparts. The puppets are united by a common problem: each is an ostomate and has a stoma. They gather together to help resolve any difficulty that each may face. Their aim is to bring understanding, fun and imagination into the lives of youngsters to help them overcome the fears and anxieties illness may incur.
Simon is the youngest gastronaut. He has a heart of gold and mother nature is his friend. He rejoices in the world and especially all the animals around him.
Sally is the oldest gastronaut, yet she is clever beyond her years. She uses her brain to solve a myriad of problems.
Lucy is athletic and keeps the others on their toes. She is very interested in diet and jumping!
Max is the tallest Gastronaut. He is the protector but although he is strong and bold, he prefers to use words to explain problems away.
Dr Russell (Call me Rusty) Chartwell is a well known Paediatric Bellybuttonologist. He loves children and spends time getting to know his small patients. He is on hand to advise all his patients and comfort the parents, although he can be a little flirtatious around the mums!!!
A Gastronaut will be a friend to whom a child can talk and someone to hold on to in unfamiliar surroundings (hospitals, doctors offices, MRI equipment etc.). They can be used as a communication tool between a child and an adult, particularly when talking to strangers – medical staff, new teachers etc. a constant, little friend in time of need. The Gastronauts are not superheroes, although their gifts have been slightly exaggerated – we are, after all entering the wonderful world of a child’s imagination.
To learn more about the Gastronauts amazing adventures, see "The Bowel Movement"
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