Senimili Toko experienced one of the best moments of her life yesterday.

Not only was it her 60th birthday but she got to spend it surrounded by great music, great food and with great

company.

She was among the hundreds who turned up for Thurston Food and Music Festival at the Thurston Gardens in Suva.

She had initially planned to celebrate her day at the Royal Suva Yacht Club but decided she wanted to spend time with those who she, even at her age, was helping.

“I wanted to spend my birthday with the disabled so it could be memorable for me,” said the woman from Levuka, Lakeba in Lau.

“I had started the Fiji Crippled Children organisation in Waimanu Road in Suva, back in the days which I am very much attached with.

“And that is why I got the children and adults to the music festival today so they could also enjoy this day with music and great food.

“I am a tailor and a designer which I earn from and help the disabled children.”

She was surprised when her birthday was announced and celebrated by one whom she considers a daughter, Vude Queen, Laisa Vulakoro.

She knew Ms Vulakoro through her niece, Jenny Naidu.

“She (Laisa) used to disturb me with her singing in my kitchen.

“The bond between me and Laisa is very emotional as she is like a daughter to me,” Ms Toko said.

Ms Vulakoro said Ms Toko had always encouraged her to sing.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa