Marija (76) Has Been Using a Glucose Sensor for a Year — and Feels Free Again
For more than two decades, Marija Radošević has been living with type 2 diabetes in the small village in Croatia. She’s overjoyed that, for the past year, she’s been receiving the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor through her national health insurance — the reason behind this inspiring story.
Now, at 76 years old, thanks to her sensor, Marija feels free again — no finger pricks, no pain, with her doctor’s support and an active social life!
Life Before the Sensor: Daily Pain and Endless Finger Pricks
Marija managed her blood sugar the traditional way for 22 years — with finger pricks and test strips.
A New Chapter: Starting Insulin and Switching to the Sensor
A year ago, after starting insulin therapy with four daily doses, her diabetologist suggested she try the FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus.
She was immediately connected to the LibreLinkUp¹ app, which linked her to her clinic. Through the LibreView² system, her doctor could monitor her glucose levels remotely.
Sugar Under Control — and Life Full of Colour
The sensor gave Marija something she hadn’t felt in years: freedom.
Today, she lives a full, vibrant life. Every Saturday, she dances to live music in the nearby town of Ivanić-Grad, enjoys sewing, knitting, crocheting, making jewellery, and baking cakes for friends and family. She even travels with the local pensioners’ club — they’ve visited Lake Ohrid, and soon they’re heading to Prague.
Marija is also an active member of the “For a Better Life” Diabetes Club, sings in the Ivančice choir, and volunteers with the local Red Cross.
Her Doctor and Nurse Can See Everything — and Respond Instantly
Whenever her glucose readings are unstable, her diabetologist notices right away.
Her diabetes nurse also checks in when needed, all thanks to remote monitoring through LibreView.
Libre Helped Even in Hospital
After a fall, Marija was hospitalised and treated with corticosteroids — which made her sugar control more difficult.
A Lifetime of Hard Work — and Diabetes Never Stopped Her
Once the owner of a hair salon, Marija is now retired but still takes care of her rural home, garden, and animals.
She just turned 76, and while some people think sensors are “for the younger generation,” she strongly disagrees.
Marija is living proof that age is no barrier to technology — or to enjoying life.
Her Message to Everyone with Diabetes
Maria wants everyone to know:
"Diabetes isn’t a monster — you just have to listen to your doctors. It’s only scary if you let it be."
¹ LibreLinkUp is an app that allows caregivers and clinics to view glucose data remotely.
² LibreView is a cloud-based system for healthcare professionals to monitor glucose patterns.
