Lamar Odom is celebrating his 36th birthday in hospital today (06.11.15).

Lamar Odom

Lamar Odom

The former NBA star's estranged wife Khloé Kardashian organised a small private party with cake and balloons for him at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles, where he is recovering after being found unconscious at a brothel following a drugs binge last month.

Speaking before the surprise bash, a source said: "It's something very small and very short but will make him feel amazing. Then Khloé will be with him for the rest of the day."

The 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians' star, who was recently criticised by a number of Lamar's family members for allegedly blocking them from visiting him despite paying for their airfares, checked with his doctors to make sure he was well enough for the gathering before inviting a select few people to attend, including some of his former teammates and two of his best friends.

The insider told PEOPLE.com: "It's just a very small group of people because Lamar cannot handle too much stimulus, but the doctors are allowing a small group for a short time on his birthday."

The former L.A. Lakers player has received lots of birthday messages and calls from the several members of the team, who are currently away travelling, while Kobe Bryant sent him a gift.

Lamar also used to play for the L.A. Clippers and his former teammates there are planning to try to visit him after their practice today with his longtime trainer.

The athlete's aunt JaNean Mercer released a statement, saying: "Every birthday with Lamar is special but today is an especially momentous occasion and we honour GOD for this day and thank HIM for allowing us to spend this time together."

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