This Blythewood woman uses her experience with infertility to help others
On top of a diagnosis of infertility three years ago, Andrena Nadine King and her husband, Chris, learned a painful truth: “No one truly understands this journey until they experience it firsthand.”
King – a workforce development specialist with the Richland Library – worked with Resolve, the National Infertility Association, to start a support group for people facing infertility.
“I wanted to let others know they were not alone on this journey and they didn’t have to suffer in silence,” she said. “The support group … provides an open space for individuals to listen and share with others going through the same thing.”
King’s experience with infertility also fueled her creativity as she participated in WREN’s photo exhibit, “Seen and Heard,” opening Thursday, Feb. 1, at Tapp’s Arts Center.
“The women and girls involved in ‘Seen and Heard’ were each given a camera to document challenges and obstacles we face,” she said. “I contributed my personal journey regarding infertility and the limited support, awareness and insurance coverage provided by our state. The experience was very refreshing and empowering. It provided a safe place to reflect, share, encourage and collaborate with some amazing women in our community.”
She and her husband live in Blythewood.
EAT
I love great food, and pizza is one of my favorites. I’m a frequent visitor to Blaze Pizza in the Village at Sandhill. I love that the ingredients are fresh and you can see them prepare it. I normally get a pepperoni pizza with veggies and – my favorite – the pesto drizzle when it comes out the oven. So delicious!
Another favorite spot in the Northeast area on a Friday night is S&A Seafood Market & Restaurant. They have the best fried fish, which is made to order. I normally get the fried flounder basket – and OMG, don’t forget the hush puppies.
DRINK
Smoothie King is my favorite place for drinks these days as I watch my calories. I love the plethora of options. I frequent the new location in the Village of Sandhills. No more driving all the way to Forest Drive.
SEE
The new Palmetto Citizens Amphitheater in Blythewood is a hidden gem. It’s a great place to go for Fourth of July activities, fireworks and food trucks. Plenty of room to put out your lawn chairs, a playground area for the kiddos, and the pond at Doko Manor provides a nice ambiance.
LISTEN
I love that the Midlands are getting some A-List performers coming to the Township, Music Farm and various outdoor festivals.
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PLAY
My play consists of doing some serious bargain shopping for our home at Ross, Kirkland’s, Hobby Lobby and don’t forget TJ Maxx. I always find great decor and super cute shoes as a bonus. You can also find me organizing and planning various events.
I find relaxation while at home with an aromatherapy candle burning, my fuzzy blanket Smurfette and watching Netflix with my favorite guy – hubby!
This story was originally published February 1, 2018 at 11:42 AM with the headline "This Blythewood woman uses her experience with infertility to help others."