Poor Tomoko Ninomiya. She just can't get a break these days. Back in January, she had to put the Nodame Cantibile series on hold due to a bout with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. After a few months, things seemed to be looking up again, and the short stories coming in the form of Nodame Cantibile:Backstage were announced. Things were looking up for Nodame fans, not to mention Tomoko herself! But Anime News Network reported today that Tomoko had to be rushed to the hospital due to abdominal pain and was diagnosed with acute appendicitis. Nooooo!
Unfortunately, she will be unable to work on the manga while she receives treatment, so it could be a little while until things get back on track. Kiss magazine will keep readers updated as to when they can expect it to continue. Get well soon, Tomoko -- Nodame will be sad until you're back to your old self!