Helping Davide

Many of you may know Davide Manzo already. He came here from Italy with his Mother in March 1970 and they established themselves in Pittsfield. He is a man of many talents and great wisdom. Cooking with the brick oven he made was his greatest passion. In 1997 He helped build and assisted in the creation of Trattoria il Vesuvio in Lenox, MA. In 2001 he opened Trattoria Rustica on McKay Street in Pittsfield, MA. Over the years many have traveled from a far to experience the restaurant and have come to love Davide and the Trattoria. He made a home away from home for many. The staff, and the patrons have become family; and he has become a staple in the community.

On March 31st Davide opened the restaurant to host a private dinner for long time regulars. Halfway through the dinner Davide fell ill and was brought to BMC. He was having heart failure and BMC was unsure that he would make it through the night. The next day his heart failed and he flatlined. Thankfully the doctors and staff were able to bring him back and stabilize him and brought him to Baystate. While at the hospital he was sedated for 10 days to stabilize him for heart surgery. They really weren’t sure if he was going to make it or not. He pulled through and stabilized enough for the heart surgery. After the surgery he was taken off of sedation and has been transferred out of Baystate for rehabilitation. He still needs one more heart surgery when he’s well enough for it and He has a long road of recovery.

We are asking for donations to ease the financial burdens for Davide. He has heavy medical bills, a mortgage, and more to come along. The best thing for him to do right now is heal and keep his stress levels low so that he can undergo the next procedure and eventually get back home to the people, places and things that he loves.

Anything helps, even a share. Any contribution is appreciated.

Please keep him in your hearts and prayers during this time. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity.