The idea of someone so disconnected from the world that they slowly disappear from it isn't a new one - I always think of that Buffy episode when I come across a story like this, though I doubt that was the first version of it either. But this is nicely done, particularly the way in which it describes how people will avoid seeking medical help for their problems, first out of fear and denial and then out of shame. On the other hand it's unfortunate that the disappearing protagonist is just so very unlikeable. Perhaps that is a deliberate choice on Langan's part, however, and one which is meant to implicate the reader. I'd avoid this trainwreck of a person too, which would, in this universe, contribute to her loss. Perhaps that should make me feel guilty, even if at some remove... but it doesn't.