Alex Elman, a powerful force in the wine industry for over 20 years and founder and of Alex Elman Wines, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in 1977, at age 9. At this time, management of the disease had not advanced as far as it has today, and as a result, Alex struggled.  In 1993, at the age of 25, Alex started having vision problems and by 1995, was completely blind.  The following year, Alex underwent the very rare procedure of a kidney-pancreas transplant.  Her blindness and medical issues, however, have not slowed her down.  In fact, they have only strengthened her passion for and knowledge of wine.  Today, Alex travels the world with her seeing eye dog, General, in search of the perfect wines for commercial success.

Although Alex had heard of JDRF, it wasn’t until Wayne and Shelley Harris, longtime JDRF supporters, reached out to her following an interview on the CBS Morning Show.  The Harrises asked if Alex would donate wine to their annual event, The Crabby Daddy Benefit Motorcycle Ride for JDRF, held in Frederick, MD.  Alex responded enthusiastically, “No, I’m going to give you a case of wine and I want to ride!”  Not only did this begin a close friendship between Alex and the Harrises, but it also resulted in Alex’s involvement with JDRF.  In fact, Alex donated all of the wine for the Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Chapter’s DC Hope Gala as well as wine tastings for the DC and MD Gala auctions.  Alex feels that JDRF is responsible for so much progress in the way people live with T1D today and is thrilled to support the organization.

Alex’s story embodies the strength and courage that all type 1 diabetics have. Alex has overcome obstacles to become the successful woman she is today.  She encourages others to educate themselves about T1D and how to live a healthy lifestyle to avoid complications.  JDRF is grateful to have her support and looks forward to a future of partnering to turn Type 1 into Type None!