Supporting Iraqi children with cancer by buying chocolates

Tokyo, Jan 24 (Kyodo) A Japanese non-governmental grouphas launched an annual buy-chocolate campaign to supportpediatric cancer patients in Iraq ahead of Valentine''sDay on February 14.

The Japan Iraq Medical Network has prepared 120,000 tinsof chocolate this year, 20,000 more than the previous year, asthe number of repeat donors has been increasing, according tothe organisation.

''''You can help reduce the death toll among children bymaking a small donation,'''' said Minoru Kamata, a physician andhead of the group.

This year''s campaign is the sixth of its kind for thenon-governmental organization supporting children sufferingfrom cancer in the war-torn country.

Each tin, featuring a drawing on the outside by Iraqichildren suffering from cancer, contains 10 heart-shapedchocolates made by Rokkatei Confectionary Co in Obihiro,Hokkaido Prefecture.

A set of four tins costs 2,000 yen and the proceeds willgo toward covering medical expenses for the children,including medicines and blood transfusion devices.

Donors can place orders by calling or by buying the tinsat an exhibition on Iraqi child artists at Gallery Hibiya inTokyo. (Kyodo)