Earlier this week I shared the heartbreaking story of Nicci Sylvester, owner of Tonic - local kitchen and juice bar, friend, and longtime Rochester resident.  She was admitted to the ICU Thanksgiving weekend because of liver failure. Unfortunately, the latest update is not the one we were all hoping for. According to her Caring Bridge page,  Nicci passed peacefully Friday night after being removed from life-saving efforts. "Her liver did not survive as was suspected and her organs were shutting down."

As we shared yesterday, several Rochester restaurants are joining forces to support Nicci and her family. All food and beverages will be donated and prepared by local restaurants and offered in a communal, potluck style fashion. According to their Facebook page, they will continue to hold the benefit.

We want to extend our deepest sympathy to her family during this trying time, and we know you all join us in that sentiment. We will be moving forward with the event in order to provide any support possible to her family. Please join us in honoring Nicci, and consider contributing in any way possible. May Nicci's commitment and passion for local food and community live on through all of us. #niccistrong

Restaurants on tap for the benefit include Grand Rounds, Casablanca, Peoples Food Coop, Nupa, Porch and Cellar, Chesters, Pescara, Terza, Little Thistle, The Loop, Five West, Half Barrel/Bar Buffalo, Old Abe, Bleu Duck, Taphouse, Victorias, Shannon Fitzgibbons, and Libation Project. More are expected to join as well. We'll update the story as we know.

They are asking for donations of at least $25 to her GoFundMe account. Donations will also be accepted at the door with 100% of the proceeds going to Nicci and her family.

The benefit is taking place Sunday, December 9th from noon until 4p at Bleu Duck.

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