by Gladys Ochoa Julie Maggi’s A Fine Withering explores the grief, the challenges and the recovery that come with a hysterectomy. While researching the procedure, she concludes that although a common surgery, hysterectomies are not discussed publicly. The lack of personal stories available lead the author to write about her experience. The story begins with the diagnosis of a large myoma that requires a hysterectomy to remove the myoma. The author, although recently coming to terms with not having children, finds herself conflicted on the news. A part of her had foreseen this with the way her body had… Read More
I’m a Terminal Cancer Patient, but I’m Fine
by Melanie Anspacher The graphic memoir by manga artist Hilnama is strikingly unique, not only in narrative and artistic content but in the author’s mission to leave a legacy to her readers. The work was initially released as 10 online chapter installments, published on Flex Comix’s Comic Polaris manga site in 20201. From the outset, Hilnama’s goal is to help others while also recounting her experience. As she tells her readers, “If it helps even a little, that’d make me happy [pg. 5].” The published book includes an epilogue, as well as reflections on each online chapter that describe how… Read More