I Have A Gastrostomy... And Guess What?

I Have a Gastrostomy… And Guess What? is a reassuring, joyful children’s picture book that celebrates bravery, confidence, and being wonderfully yourself.

Meet Penny — a bright, confident child who happens to have a gastrostomy. Through gentle rhyme and colourful illustrations, Penny shares her world honestly and positively, showing children that having medical equipment doesn’t stop them from playing, laughing, learning, or shining.

With the support of her friendly gastrostomy companion Peggy, Penny helps young readers understand what a gastrostomy is in a calm, child-friendly way, while focusing on what truly matters: courage, resilience, and self-belief.

This book is designed to:

• Support children with gastrostomies in feeling seen, proud, and understood

• Help siblings, friends, and classmates learn with kindness and curiosity

• Offer reassurance to families navigating medical journeys

• Encourage open, age-appropriate conversations about difference and inclusion

Part of the I Have… And Guess What? series, this story shifts the focus away from limitations and towards strengths — reminding every child that they are capable, valued, and never defined by their medical needs.

Written by a children’s nurse and inspired by real experiences of caring for brave children and families, this book is perfect for home, schools, hospitals, and healthcare settings.

✨ Because having a gastrostomy is only one small part of a very brilliant story.