Running with Resilience: Xander Wells’ Journey to the NYC Marathon with Type 1 Diabetes

Beyond Type 1 is spotlighting inspiring athletes with type 1 diabetes as they prepare for the upcoming New York City Marathon on November 3, 2024. These runners are breaking boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and showing the world what’s possible when managing diabetes on the move.

Xander Wells’ decision to run as part of the Beyond Type Run team in the 2024 New York City Marathon was about much more than testing his endurance.

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes  just as he was embarking on his running journey, Xander’s marathon pursuit has become a powerful way to redefine what it means to live with diabetes.

As he prepares to lace up his shoes for one of the world’s most iconic races, Xander reflects on the deep connection between his running, his diagnosis, and his drive to inspire others.

‘I Could Not Be More Proud’

“My diagnosis came at the same time I was beginning my running journey,” Xander says.

Like many athletes, he initially chalked up his health complications to the grueling nature of training.

“I attributed all of my health complications to ‘just part of running’ rather than untreated diabetes.”

It wasn’t until later that Xander realized diabetes was at the heart of his challenges. Despite this revelation, he found ways to turn frustration into fuel.

“Moments of frustration, anger, grief, laughter, and joy tied my experiences together,” he says. “Running and having type 1 diabetes became intertwined and taught me so much,” he explains.”

Xander’s motivation deepened when he discovered the stories of other athletes living with diabetes through Beyond Type 1.

“I was moved to tears when I first came across the stories from the running community at Beyond Type 1. I could not be more proud to lace up shoes and join the 2024 Marathon Team and help change what it means to live with diabetes.”

Managing Diabetes on the Run

Preparing for a marathon is no small feat, and when you’re living with diabetes, the challenges multiply.

Xander’s diabetes management during long training runs and the marathon itself is a careful balancing act.

“The most important thing to me is listening to my body,” he explains.

For Xander, this means meticulous planning.

“Before each run, I plan out insulin intake, fuel, nutrition, hydration, and stretching based on what I’ve learned during training.”

One of his strategies is reducing his basal insulin by 20-30% the night before long runs, giving himself “some cushion” to prevent lows.

Most of his training takes place fasted, and he opts for a small, well-balanced snack before heading out.

“It’s not a perfect science, but it works for me!” he says.

How Xander Leverages Tech

Xander also relies on technology.

“I wear a CGM [continuous glucose monitor] to monitor my blood sugar, which can send alerts to my phone if I go out of range. I try to only check manually every 3-5 miles,” he explains.

With diabetes, fueling is one of the biggest challenges for endurance athletes. Xander has learned through trial and error what works for his body.

“Fueling has been my biggest challenge. Providing my body with the proper energy while also balancing blood sugars is a ton of experimentation,” he admits.

His go-to snacks? Nerds Clusters, Lifesavers, fruit leather, and glucose tablets, all tucked into his running belt.

Facing Challenges, Embracing Triumphs

Running long distances with diabetes brings specific hurdles, but Xander’s perseverance is evident.

“Different foods affect my blood sugar, energy, and general feeling differently,” he notes, but through countless training runs, he’s been able to pinpoint what works best for him.

After particularly challenging runs, Xander often experiences breakthroughs.

“After one run this summer, I removed my CGM because it was time for a new sensor,” he recalls. “This moment was a tremendous reminder that these things are a part of me but don’t define me.”

This self-awareness is central to Xander’s outlook.

“I’m more than a runner,”  he shares. “I’m more than a person with diabetes. When you strip those things away, I’m a person learning to navigate each and every day—we all are.”

Support and Strength

Xander is quick to recognize the importance of community in his journey.

He has found support not only from his loved ones but also from fellow runners living with diabetes.

“I’m beyond grateful for the people I love and the support they’ve given me on this journey,” he says.

From joining him on runs to sending encouraging messages, Xander’s support system has made a tremendous impact.

Additionally, being part of Beyond Type Run’s marathon team has provided Xander with immense motivation.

“Being able to drive fundraising, promote advocacy, and build community with Beyond Type Run’s Marathon Team is a beautiful way to empower ourselves and others,” he says. “We’re proving to ourselves and the world that diabetes is a part of us, but it doesn’t define us.”

Looking Ahead to Marathon Day

As Xander prepares for the marathon, he feels a mix of emotions—grief, frustration, growth, strength, and joy.

“November 3rd will be a surreal culmination of emotions,” he reflects.

Crossing the finish line in Central Park will symbolize his triumph over the challenges he has faced, both as a runner and as a person living with diabetes.

“Crossing that finish line will be a commitment,” Xander says, “a commitment to continue pushing the envelope forward for what we are capable of, to continue changing what it means to live with diabetes.”

For Xander, the marathon isn’t just about running. It’s about community, empowerment, and rewriting the narrative around what it means to live—and thrive—with type 1 diabetes.

Help the Beyond Type Run Team Cross the Finish Line

On November 3, 2024 in New York City, the Beyond Type Run team will show the world what it looks like to live and thrive beyond diabetes. The marathon team plays a vita roles in awareness and fundraising efforts for Beyond Type 1, so please consider supporting our team by donating today.

Please donate if you can.