Being Thankful Isn’t Reserved Only for Thanksgiving

Disclaimer – This post is sponsored in partnership with Abbott Canada, however, as always, all opinions are our own.

Even though I am still missing the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer, there are so many things about autumn that I love. The gorgeous reds, oranges, and yellows of the deciduous trees, visiting our local farmer’s markets, marveling at the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables and the brilliant blue of the sky on a cool, crisp autumn day.

This time of the year makes me think of what I’m thankful forand the many people and things in my life that I am truly appreciative for. I am fortunate for so much, everything from an amazing family to wonderful friends and an abundance of food to a cozy house to keep us warm.

If you caught one of my earlier posts, Flash Glucose Monitoring Technology Improves the Lives of those Living with Diabetes, you will know my family has a long history of diabetes; I have several aunts, nieces and cousins with this condition.

I have lived most of my life with an acute awareness of how critical it is for those living with diabetes to properly manage their condition. Which brings me to something else I am very thankful for! I am especially grateful for the technology of the FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system that has improved the lives of so many people, including many members of my immediate and extended family.

Prior to this technology, many people living with diabetes needed to endure several finger pricks daily, which is not only painful but can also be very limiting to their lifestyle. Thankfully, with the FreeStyle Libre system, all that has now changed! Why? Because now finger pricking¹ is no longer necessary.

So, what is this new technology?

It’s Convenient –

A small sensor automatically measures and continuously stores glucose readings day and night.

It’s Discreet –

Glucose readings with a painless, one-second scan even through clothing.

It’s Easy –

Swim, shower or exercise — the FreeStyle Libre system is designed to be water-resistant and worn while bathing, showering, swimming or exercising.

It’s User-friendly –

With every scan, you get your current glucose reading, as well as an arrow showing the direction your glucose is heading. It also stores the last 8 hours of glucose data.

The FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System has two individual components: the FreeStyle Libre sensor which is designed to be easy to apply and easy to wear and the FreeStyleLibre Reader harnesses advanced sensor-based technology to read glucose data, then instantly displays the data in a meaningful, user-friendly way.

And, for people who like to keep track of their health on their smartphone, FreeStyle LibreLink is also available. With many of the same features as your FreeStyle Libre reader, the FreeStyle LibreLink app allows you to monitor your glucose on your phone.

Thankfully, with the rise of technology and at-home connectivity, healthcare devices are increasingly becoming available with mobile apps to remove common barriers to regular testing and empower patients to be in control!

The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring system and LibreLink app (“App”), when used with the FreeStyle Libre sensor, is indicated for measuring interstitial fluid glucose levels in adults aged 18 years and older with diabetes mellitus. If you are using the FreeStyle LibreLink app, you must also have access to a blood glucose monitoring system as the app does not provide one. Always read and follow the label/insert for detailed instructions and indication of use.

1. A finger prick test using a blood glucose meter is required during times of rapidly changing glucose levels when interstitial fluid glucose levels may not accurately reflect blood glucose levels or if hypoglycemia or impending hypoglycemia is reported by the system or when symptoms do not match the System readings.

2. For a complete glycemic picture, scan once every 8 hours.

3. The reader can capture data from the sensor when it is within 1 cm to 4 cm of the sensor.

4. Sensor is water-resistant in up to 1 metre (3 feet) of water for a maximum of 30 minutes.

5. The FreeStyle LibreLink app is compatible with Near-Field Communication (NFC) -enabled phones running Android OS 5.0 or higher and with iPhone 7 and higher running iOS 11 or higher.