It was a special Diwali for Ana Maiverata of Seaqaqa, Macuata Province when she received Diwali sweets yesterday.

The four-year-old received her sweets while she was admitted at the Labasa Hospital children’s ward.

With her father Sakiusa Niulala at her bedside, she was recuperating from a successful surgery on her right leg the day before.

Being the youngest of three siblings, Ana said: “I like Diwali, I like the sweets.”

“I am happy my dad is here with me, and I like these sweets,” she said.

According to Mr Niulala their neighbours gave out sweets during Diwali and for Ana this was tahe first time to experience the festival this way.

“She is excited because of the variety of sweets given to her today,” Mr Niulala said.

“She has been uncomfortable following her surgery, her visitors today have cheered her up,” he said.

Mr Niulala, a rootcrop farmer thanked Raiderz Club members for sharing the spirit of Diwali to lighten his daughter’s heart and spirit.

“We have been in the hospital for four days and will be admitted for another two weeks before she is reviewed again,” he said.

“It hasn’t been easy for us as a family to be separated on this special public holiday where we look forward to visit friends’ houses to eat sweets and see our children enjoy playing firecrackers.

“Although we don’t celebrate Diwali, we always look forward to be part of it.”

Raiderz Club founder Rajneel Maharaj said the club made up of men from all walks of life decided to celebrate Diwali this year by visiting children in the hospital in a meaningful way.

“While you are busy celebrating Diwali with sweets and lights, remember that festivals are about spreading joy around and you can always make some contribution towards society according to your capabilities,” Mr Maharaj said.

“There are a number of children who spend Diwali in hospitals as they are suffering from various illnesses and who may not have anything to look forward on Diwali,” he said.

“However, we can all bring a difference to their lives and that is what we have done today.”

All patients admitted at the children’s ward received Diwali packs from Raiderz Club members.