Publications
In 2025 I published my first comic book, WORM: A Transformation by Chronic Illness.
WORM is a physical comic book that explores life with chronic health conditions. It’s also an ode to the earthworm. This autobiographical work explores the ways we relate to our physical bodies. The story processes my experience being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Through this book, I hope to encourage those living with invisible illnesses and chronic health conditions.
This book is a culmination of my work for my Bachelor of Arts (Honours) year (2023), where I developed a 38-page comic and informative book about my experiences of diagnosis and life with type 1 diabetes. The project is the result of broad and varied creative led research, conducted over a period of 18 months.
Research Methedology
My research for this project investigates the lived experience of type 1 diabetes (T1D) through the symbol of the earthworm and creative-led research methodologies such as illustration and storytelling. I have developed a 32-page comic made up of two sections – a diaristic narrative of my experience with T1D diagnosis complemented by ten pages of infographics.
The comic is informed by research into the role of art in medical contexts, autobiographical representations of chronic health issues in art and the specialised genre of medical comics. This project aims to make practical connections between art and medicine in order to improve the lives of those with chronic illnesses. Research into resources relating to T1D, has revealed, that while there is a wealth of information for children and parents, there is a distinct lack of informative and engaging communication aimed at older teens and young adults.
As someone who was diagnosed with T1D at the age of 19, I have used art to grapple with my own diagnosis and realised that sharing my journey through creative expression could inspire and empower others and spark conversations around this illness that will help demystify it while acting as an educative tool.
Publication Details
© Lara Girgis, 2025
Published by Lara Girgis
Printed and bound by Watson Ferguson & Co. Tingalpa, Australia
ISBN: 978-0-646-72647-2
This perfect bound publication is 23cm x15cm and is printed on150gsm paper. The cover is 235gsm) and has a matte laminate finish.
(This book is intended only as an informative guide for those wishing to know more about type 1 diabetes. The experiences and information described in this book should not be used to replace the specialised training and professional judgment of your medical team. Decisions concerning medical and mental health care should be made between you and your licensed health care providers. The author and publisher disclaim all liability in connection with the use of this book.)