Sole Searching

This lovely little small-press comic is actually a collection of stories about shoes,  but I have included it here because the first story, ‘Evil Shoes From Hell’, is about a visit to the local A and E department after the author’s husband has fallen over a pair of shoes left in the hallway. Rushing to answer the door, he has  tripped and injured his arm and ribs. An ambulance ride later he’s treated to a cursory check over by A and E staff and told he is going to be discharged. He’s in no fit state and it turns out that he has, in fact,  got a couple of breaks.

This is a charming tale of the sort of frustrations common to life, told without melodrama. It does show, however, the shortcomings in care that are sometimes found in Emergency department. It tells of the careless and patronising attitudes of the staff, missed injuries and unprofessional behaviour.

Cassavetti’s brushwork looks effortless yet is wonderfully expressive. Her characters are brought to life in a few deft lineswith a minimum of fuss which makes the strips are a joy to read.

I’ve worked in A and E and I know how stressful it can be. Overwork and the abusive behaviour somepatients can cause a hardening of staff attitudes and behaviour. Stories like this, which ring true from the perspectives of both patients and staff, are valuable in reminding us that sometimes all it takes to quell someones anxiety and frustration is a little time, civilty and kindness.

See also: The Most Natural Thing in the World