Uno en miles
Increasingly, graphic medicine has been proposing an inclusive language where the symbiosis of text and image not only finds intellectual resonance but also emotional connection, even for those who may not be familiar with formal written language. Through the comic book “Being One in Thousands,” written by Natalia Jiménez (creative director of our biomedical communication line) and illustrated by Juan Pablo Solarte, a fictional narrative unfolds, exposing aesthetic, ethical, and political tensions in the everyday life of a patient diagnosed with a rare disease and their family.
The first-person narration, the constant presence of the protagonist’s imagination as a tool to evoke empathy with others (often in an unfriendly environment), and science as the backdrop, dissuade the young protagonist from passing judgment on others (who can easily judge him). These elements allowed this comic book to be edited and ultimately published under the Javerian editorial label in December 2019.
The layout and color treatment, as well as the typography, were designed to uphold the attributes that accompany the main character in their everyday adventure: imagination (in conversations with imaginary heroes that provide comfort but also challenge), resilience, and a taste for diversity. This book serves as a learning tool to understand the value of differences, empathy, and the importance of friendship.
