Silent Victims: Part One  by Gary Millar Book Launch

Writing on the Wallis a dynamic, Liverpool-based community organisation that coordinates projects and events that celebrate writing in all its forms. We work with a broad and inclusive definition of writing that embraces literature, creative writing, journalism and non-fiction, poetry, songwriting, and storytelling. Writing on the Wall works with local, national and international writers whose work provokes controversy and debate. We work with all of Liverpool’s communities to promote and celebrate individual and collective creativity.

Writing on the Wall

Join us for the launch of Silent Victims: Part One by Gary Millar.

The Quaker Meeting House

Join us for the launch of Silent Victims: Part One by Gary Millar!In 1958 Thalidomide, marketed as a new ‘wonder drug’, was first used in the UK, promising relief from morning sickness for expectant mothers. It’s impact was devastating, leading to countless miscarriages and causing over 10,000 children to be born with a range of severe birth defects. Although it was withdrawn from the market in 1961, Thalidomide’s impact upon the lives tens of thousands of children and their families, who fought for decades for recognition and justice, continues to be felt to this day.Silent Victims: Part One, focuses on the life of Margaret Marjorie Millar – Madge – a mother lost in the fog of the drug’s tragic legacy. Told through meticulously transcribed medical case notes and interwoven with deeply personal reflections from Madge’s son, Gary Millar, Silent Victims offers a raw yet factual exploration of Thalidomide’s impact through the lens of one family, and is a call to reflect on the untold stories of all of the silent victims of the Thalidomide Scandal. Gary Millar, former Lord Mayor of Liverpool, has dedicated his life to helping others and turning adversity into positive action. Born in Scotland and raised in challenging circumstances, he overcame early hardships, including family tragedy and struggles with education, to build a successful career in Liverpool's business and political landscape. As Lord Mayor from 2013 to 2014, he championed diversity and equality, raising nearly a million pounds for charitable causes supporting vulnerable children, the homeless, and cancer charities. Beyond politics, Gary co-owned Parr Street Studios, earned accolades for contributions to business and culture, and continues to support initiatives benefiting the care-experienced, people with disabilities, and others in need. His journey reflects resilience, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to 'Paying It Forward.' Published by Writing on the WallWriting on the Wall (WoW) believe in creativity, community, diversity, artistic excellence and social and economic justice. We are Liverpool’s longest-running writing festival. We celebrate and inspire creativity and writing in all its forms through inquiry, debate, performance and publishing. Our annual WoWFest brings together local audiences with the best local, national and international writers, artists and social commentators. Doors open at 6pm, event starts at 6.30pm.

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Silent Victims: Part One by Gary Millar Book Launch

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Silent Victims: Part One by Gary Millar Book Launch

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