I don't like birthdays. I don't celebrate them. I find them depressing and I do not like being ghr center of attention ever. Thankfully just about every place I've ever worked has accommodated me when I've asked not to do anything. I totally understand where this guy is coming from.
My wife is like this. She hates her birthdays. For her, we just do a small family thing at home. She doesn't mind throwing a party for me or the kids, just not her.