My sister recently turned 50 she went tp America for a few weeks and celebrated it quietly. She works in a large office and told all her close colleagues she didn't want a fuss or collection there seems to a collection every week for something people moan but give wages haven't increased much there and people struggle, she wanted to keep it all low key though. This wish was duly passed on but a collection was raised. She came back to work and explained her reasons. I think she shouldn't be ungrateful and take the money people must like her . She wants to spread the money out across the office maybe a small buffet. I think her colleagues will feel that she is above them not wanting their gift. I know in my office they would feel like this.