It’s sad that we need a round-up article to cover the comic creative talents that have medical problems, need help, or both, but here we are.

The attention drawn by the first Guardians of the Galaxy trailer (see "First 'Guardians of the Galaxy' Trailer"), has focused attention on Rocket Raccoon and the character’s co-creator, the inestimable Bill Mantlo.  Writer Greg Pak, among others, has been drawing attention to Mantlo’s difficult situation due to a brain injury from a hit-and-run accident in 1992, and his need for donations to assist with his care, as in this post.

Stan & Sharon Sakai
Usagi Yojimbo creator Stan Sakai needs funds to support his wife Sharon's medical care, and CAPS, the Comic Art Professional Society, will launch an ongoing series of eBay Auctions of hundreds of pieces of original art, art objects, books, and so on donated to help raise money for the cause on March 6th.  The auctions will be announced and promoted through the Society’s Facebook page.  A benefit book, The Sakai Project, will be released by Dark Horse this summer (see "'The Sakai Project' Benefit Book"). 

And Oni Press has announced the medical retirement of longtime editor Jill Beaton, who’s edited Courtney Crumrin, Diesel Sweeties, Letter #44, and many other Oni titles.  "Her love of the comics and creators of Oni Press will be felt forever," Oni Press Editor in Chief James Lucas Jones said.