Emotions ran high at the Thembalami Care Centre and Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA) as residents gathered to celebrate the monthly birthday bash, highlighted by a special musical performance from Sonja Cilliers and her husband, Leon.
The occasion held particular significance for Sonja, as one of the birthday celebrants was her father, Julius Koen, a Thembalami resident who turns 78 on July 30. In a touching coincidence, Sonja’s own birthday falls just a day before his.
“Sonja and Leon sang beautifully, so much so that I was in tears during three of their songs,” said Thembalami deputy manager Elize Raath.
In total, six July birthdays were celebrated. Johannes Naude, at 86, was the oldest honouree, while Allan Wasserfall, 74, was the youngest.
The event brought joy, music and a sense of family to the residents, with Sonja’s heartfelt tribute to her father making it a truly memorable celebration.
Sonja Cilliers sings during the birthday bash that honoured her father, among others.
Julius Koen, who had a special song sung to him by his daughter Sonja Cilliers.
