Elizabeth Crais

Elizabeth (Betsy) Crais is a Professor and autism researcher in Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Medical School. In 1986 she was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney and Liver Disease (PKD), and in 2004 received her first kidney transplant from a colleague. After 17 years of excellent health, she received another kidney (plus a liver) transplant from a deceased donor in 2021. She has had two sisters with PKD, both of whom have had kidney transplants.

She has written numerous published articles, book chapters, and books related to communication skills in young children with developmental issues, most particularly with autism. She has also received a number of research and training grants related to developmental disabilities. She continues to be an advocate for living kidney donation and along with Carol has appeared on a number of podcasts, written key magazine articles, and provided helpful information to those considering donation. She currently lives with her husband and son in Chapel Hill, NC. Her daughter lives in LA.