"When you hear hoofprints, think zebras, not horses."

Oftentimes, people feel ill, go to the doctor, get help, and get better. And that's the end of it. But sometimes, doctors aren't so helpful. They may be uncooperative, closed-minded, and unwilling to believe you. They may even misdiagnose you completely. Sometimes, despite searching for a diagnosis for years, you just can't find the answers.

This concept is at the very core of In Need of Diagnosis, Inc. In 2006, Marianne Genetti founded the non-profit organization in the hopes of helping others like herself get the answers they so desperately need. While she isn't able to diagnose you directly, she can help you explore new options and offer hope and support.

Her website, inod.org, features inspirational stories, informative websites, contact information, and so much more. She's received letters from across the globe from people who have experienced the turmoil and frustration that comes with an undianosed illness.

Thankfully, those outside the ailing community recognize her work as well:

• On October 11, 2011, she received the Patient Advocacy award at the Dorland Health People Awards
• Articles from Los Angeles Times, Ivanhoe News, and others have all featured articles that discuss her work with INoD
• Beth Perrell, from AM 580 WDBO, interviewed Marianne about her efforts within the organization

Marianne hopes that In Need of Diagnosis will continue to grow and thrive. She wants to change the diagnostic process so that patients swiftly receive the answers for which they are so desperately searching. In a world full of medical zebras, these changes are long overdue. After all, not everything is black and white.