Medical support for Chef Alicia Simmons

Alicia joined Tavola in 2015 as a line cook, worked her way up to the

position of sous chef and became the executive chef in 2021. Her talent

and dedication in the kitchen have not only won her recognition in the

community but also made her a beloved and integral leader at Tavola.

She was voted Best Chef in C-VILLE Weekly’s 2022 reader’s poll, an

honor that speaks to both her culinary skills and her generous spirit of community.

In early December, Alicia lost her peripheral vision and went straight to UVA

for treatment where she was diagnosed with a demyelinating disease, a

condition where the protective covering around nerves in the brain is

damaged. She is currently in a period of ongoing treatment and testing as

she has not yet received an official diagnosis. In the coming months, Alicia will be seeking a second opinion at John Hopkins University Hospital and continue to look for

strategies to address her condition.

Alicia is grateful for the incredible support and care from her family, friends, and the

Tavola community. Your concern and kindness is deeply felt and appreciated.