“Aren’t the Organs a Silver Lining?”
Arizona O’Neill's graphic novel, Opioids & Organs, explores the complex emotions surrounding organ donation after her father's fentanyl overdose. The book critiques the notion of finding a 'silver lining' in the opioid crisis, highlighting the exploitation of marginalized groups. Through a surreal narrative, O’Neill examines the intersection of medical advancement and societal values.
- ▪Arizona O’Neill lost her father to a fentanyl overdose and faced the decision of organ donation as next of kin.
- ▪Her graphic novel scrutinizes the rise in organ donations amid the ongoing addiction crisis.
- ▪O’Neill's work reflects on the disturbing implications of viewing organ donation as a positive outcome of tragedy.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Become a Supporting Member For 15 years, Longreads has published and curated the best longform writing on the web—and we wouldn’t exist without dedicated readers like you. Give today and ensure that quality journalism continues to flourish. Monthly Annually Monthly $5 $12 $30 Other Donation amount per month $ Annually $50 $100 $360 Other Donation amount per year $ Thank you for your contribution! Donate Now Arizona O’Neill| Longreads | May 19, 2026 | 961 words (10 minutes) The dedication page for Arizona O’Neill’s Opioids & Organs reads: “To the parts of my father still out in the world.” O’Neill, a Montreal-based writer and artist, lost her father a decade ago to a fentanyl overdose.
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