My name is Emi

As many of you may know, I’ve always wanted to be an artist, even when I was a kid. I was adamant I was going to make comics. It’s something I’ve always been incredibly passionate about, and I’ve had so many wonderful opportunities through my art, including working on the Olive and Popeye comic for a few years.

But a year ago, I had to give up many of those opportunities and walk away from the career I’d always dreamed of.

At first, I believed it was a repetitive stress injury, but after multiple visits to a doctor, as well as the visible deterioration of my right thumb, it became clear that it was arthritis instead.

Over this past year, even after extensive rest, my hand has only gotten worse, and as it stands currently, I am only able to draw 1–2 hours a week due to the constant pain I am in. I’ve been forced to give up things that I love, and some days the pain is so bad I can’t even open bottles on my own.

Art is how I navigate the world, it’s how I process emotions and communicate.

I refuse to give up, but I need some help.

As I am sure everyone knows, healthcare is not cheap.

I’m currently without health insurance as attempts at financial aid were declined as my household makes just over the limit. With my income slowing due to my hand, my options are incredibly limited.

All donations will go to the medical treatment needed for my right hand so that I may be able to continue my career, or at the very least get to a place where pain is manageable enough to find other work.

I have found a clinic that is not only accepting new patients, but also accepts cash pay.

The estimated consultation is $400, including X-rays. (Though may not include things such as cortisone shots)

As soon as I can get these funds, I can get the ball rolling in getting my hand into a better spot.

Additional funds raised will be going to medications, supplies such as compression gloves and braces, as well as future appointments and treatments.

Thank you so much.