The headteacher of Yadua Island District School, Bua, was counting his lucky stars he survived to celebrate his birthday last Friday because his quarters collapsed moments before he left to assist evacuees sheltered at the school.

Josaia Natuilagilagi also thanked God that he lived to be with his family for another day.

He said despite the devastation caused by STC Yasa, he was grateful for the life of his young family.

“Despite all that we experienced last night, this is the best birthday gift ever to have my life spared to see another birthday with my family,” the emotional teacher told this newspaper last Friday.

Mr Natuilagilagi was among a group of men who rescued Denumanu villagers sheltering in a school building that later collapsed because of strong winds.

An elderly villager died after he was crushed by collapsing structures.