Lexie Peterson Shares Her Freestyle Libre Journey and Tips

Beyond Type 1 sat down with Lexie Peterson, known as @thedivabetic on Instagram.

Lexie Peterson talks about her journey with Freestyle Libre products, how she finds peace of mind while managing type 1 diabetes and her advice for first-time continuous glucose monitor (CGM) users.

*Interview has been edited for length and clarity.

BT1: Hi, Lexie! Thank you for joining us today to discuss your journey using a Freestyle Libre CGM. Can you introduce yourself to our audience?

Lexie: My name is Lexie Peterson, also known as @thedivabetic on social media. I’m a type 1 diabetic and have lived with type 1 diabetes for almost 15 years. I’m happy to be here!

BT1: When and how did your journey with Freestyle Libre start?

Lexie: I was one of the early users of the original Freestyle. I’ve been using it for years, on and off, depending on insurance coverage. I wasn’t introduced to it by my doctor—social media ads were my first exposure. My previous CGM was no longer covered, and I found Freestyle Libre was more affordable while offering the same accuracy. In fact, people claimed it was even more accurate, so I knew I had to try it.

BT1: You recently upgraded from the Freestyle Libre 2 to the Libre 3. What benefits have you noticed?

Lexie: The biggest improvement is you no longer have to scan the sensor to see your glucose reading. With older models, checking your blood sugar while driving required using the app. Now, the number is right there on your phone, and alerts are still included. It’s also so much smaller—about the size of [two stacked pennies].”

BT1: Have you noticed improvements in your diabetes management over the years?

Lexie: The biggest impact has been moving from scanning with the 14-Day model to having alerts with the Libre 2, which allows you to be proactive. With the Libre 3, the blood sugars are always on your phone, providing even more opportunities to stay ahead.

BT1: How has the FSL affected your life with diabetes overall?

Lexie: Peace of mind, first and foremost. I cannot stress how crucial CGMs are for both type 1 and type 2 diabetics. Traditional glucometers only show your blood sugar at one moment. With a CGM like Freestyle Libre, you can see trends and act accordingly. I don’t worry about going to sleep because alerts will wake me if needed. Losing a friend to low blood sugar in her sleep heightened my anxiety about lows. That’s why the Freestyle Libre 3 is invaluable.

BT1: Accessibility and affordability matter. How has Freestyle Libre been accessible for you?

Lexie: When insurance stopped covering my previous CGM during college, I couldn’t afford it. Seeing the Freestyle Libre ad showed me it was affordable—even for a college student. It was life-changing to regain peace of mind. I’ve picked up my CGM through pharmacies, mail-order services, and now get it shipped to my home. Freestyle Libre’s customer support has been exceptional, helping troubleshoot or replace sensors when needed.

BT1: What’s your favorite part about using Freestyle Libre products?

Lexie: Peace of mind is unmatched. I can sleep, exercise, and live without constant worry. During workouts, knowing the direction my blood sugar is heading lets me make better decisions to avoid lows or highs.

BT1: Tell us about your Instagram account, @thedivabetic. What does connecting with others online mean to you?

Lexie: It’s everything. As a kid, I attended diabetes camp, surrounded by peers who understood me. That sense of community disappeared in adulthood. I rediscovered it online, forming connections with people who truly get what it’s like to live with diabetes. Sharing my experiences on Instagram started as a way to raise awareness in college and turned into a supportive online community.

BT1: What advice do you give to stay positive while managing diabetes?

Lexie: Give yourself grace. Diabetes isn’t a destination—you’re always growing and adapting as your body changes. Connect with others. Having a support network makes a world of difference.

BT1: For someone nervous about wearing a CGM, what would you say?

Lexie: Most concerns are about pain or appearance. The sensor is barely noticeable. If people stare, use it as an opportunity to spread awareness about diabetes and bust myths. Your health is more important than worries about what others think.

This content was made possible by Abbott, a Founding Partner of Beyond Type 1. Beyond Type 1 maintains editorial control over its content.