A Richmond woman's own experiences with infertility have inspired her to organize a fundraising race to help other local couples cover the expense of trying to conceive.
Jenn Nixon and her husband, Brad (above), had been trying for a baby for five years when a miscarriage led to the discovery of a series of heart issues. The Nixons had to put their pregnancy plans on hold while Jenn underwent surgery to improve her heart function. Now, their best option for having a baby is gestational surrogacy.
The Nixons are just one of seven "featured couples" taking part in The Race to Parenthood 5K at 9 a.m. on April 12 at West Creek Business Park. "I wanted to be able to provide … an experience and a way to support and bring awareness," says Nixon. She is inviting runners, walkers or supporters to visit the race website at theracetoparenthood5k.com , choose a couple to support, then pay $45 to register and become a "member" of that couple's team. Sponsorship from companies including the Virginia IVF and Andrology Center means that the full registration fee and any additional donations can go toward funding the couples' IVF, IUI, adoption or surrogacy efforts. Registration will also be available from 7:15 to 8:15 a.m. on race day for $50, cash only.
