1000 cranes to soothe Sakurako

HELPING SAKURAKO: Izumi Hollis (left), Giichi Goto and Keiko Walker are helping to raise money for 7-year-old dog attack victim, Sakurako Uehara. PHOTO/BEN FRASER 200314BF8

Community's gift of support

The Rotorua Japanese community has united to show its support and raise money for the recovery of Sakurako Uehara who was mauled by dogs in Murupara.

The 7-year-old has had a 10-hour operation to begin to repair the facial wounds she received during the attack two weeks ago. It was the first reconstructive operation in what is expected to be a "very, very long recovery process" into her adulthood.

Kyoko Austin said the Japanese community wanted to raise funds that will go directly to supporting Sakurako and her family.

"We have made 1000 origami cranes, it's a traditional gift for someone who is sick and is needing peace," she said.

"Every time we make one we say a prayer."

The group travelled to Middlemore Hospital where Sakurako is based to give the family the senbazuru, or 1000 origami cranes, which is derived from a Japanese legend which promises that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted good luck such as recovery from illness or injury.

Mrs Austin said they were not able to talk to the family at the time but were able to pass on their best wishes.

Money is being collected throughout the city; with origami cranes on display. An origami workshop has also been organised next Sunday, March 30, at the Rotorua Arts Village on Hinemaru St. It will run from 1.30pm-3.30pm and cost is a gold coin donation. For further details contact the Arts Village on (07) 348 9008 or Hiroe K-Howell on (07) 343 9942.

Middlemore Hospital spokeswoman Lauren Young said Sakurako remains in a serious but stable condition and will undergo her next surgery on Monday.