Staff’s Heartwarming Gesture Helps Cook Realize Adoption Dream
December 22, 2025
A meeting intended for routine announcements at First Watch restaurant in Naples, Florida, turned into a touching display of compassion and generosity.
Norman and Alicia
The staff made a collective decision to forgo their annual Christmas party. Instead, they chose to donate the party fund to support their fellow employee, Norman, and his wife, Alicia, in their adoption journey. Norman, a cook known for his humor and positivity, was taken by surprise when he discovered the news during the meeting.
After facing challenges in starting a family, Norman and Alicia opted to pursue adoption. Their dream is now becoming reality as they prepare to welcome a baby girl into their lives.
The memorable moment was captured by server Heidi Paniagua, whose video of the surprise quickly garnered widespread attention online.
“We’re beyond blessed that we have all these wonderful great people that you know had this thought in their heads and kindness in their heart and decided to share it with us,” Alicia shared with NBC News.
In addition to the restaurant staff’s generous gesture, a GoFundMe campaign has raised over $3,000 to assist with further adoption expenses.
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