Hi, my name is Niki Gruttadauria. Rick is my brother-in-law and a deeply loved member of our family. I’m organizing this fundraiser to support Rick, my sister-in-law Tanya, and their kids as Rick focuses on recovery and healing.

Here’s Rick’s story:

Rick is a devoted dad, a loving husband, and a passionate dream-follower who has built his life around taking care of other people. Hospitality isn’t just his job – it’s who he is. In his restaurants, in his home, and in the way he moves through the world, Rick has a rare gift for making people feel welcome, seen, and genuinely cared for.

After years of showing up for others, Rick is now in a moment where he needs that care returned to him.

On Tuesday, February 3rd, doctors discovered a mass in Rick’s brain. He is currently at Vanderbilt University Medical Center undergoing evaluation and treatment for glioma. While the medical team focuses on determining next steps, Rick and his family are navigating the uncertainty that comes with a serious diagnosis.

On Thursday, February 5th, Rick underwent brain surgery, and doctors were able to remove approximately 90% of the tumor. We are incredibly grateful to the surgical team, and even more grateful to share that Rick has been recovering well. True to who he is, Rick has been approaching recovery with focus, patience, and the occasional well-timed joke. The nurses keep commenting on how polite he is, thanking them after everything, every time. Habits shaped by a life in hospitality.

While this is an encouraging step, it marks the beginning of a longer recovery process. The coming weeks and months will involve continued care, follow-up treatment, and time away from work as Rick focuses on healing.

As the primary provider for his family – his wife, Tanya, and their two children Stella (16) and Bodhi (13) – that time away brings financial strain on top of an already overwhelming situation. Medical bills, time off, travel, and the many small, unexpected costs that show up during a health crisis add up quickly.

This fund is meant to help lift some of that weight. To fill the gap so Rick can focus on what matters most right now: his health, his recovery, and his family.

Rick has spent his life creating space for others to feel taken care of. This is our chance to do the same for him.

The road is made by walking. Rick will take it one step at a time. And he won’t walk it alone.

If you know Rick, have shared a meal at one of his restaurants, or are simply moved by his story, this is a way to show up and extend that hospitality back to him. Any contribution, big or small, makes a difference.

We are deeply grateful for every donation, message, and act of kindness sent Rick’s way.

And in Rick’s words, thank you.