This educational activity focuses on the problems associated with the diagnosis of autoimmune-induced hyperthyroidism or Graves’ disease (GD). Gail Devers, an elite track and field athlete and Olympic gold-medalist, describes her experience prior to when she was diagnosed with GD when she was training for the Olympics. She describes symptoms of headaches, fatigue, weight loss, muscle pain, abnormal menstrual periods, and other symptoms of general discomfort. She saw several physicians, including a gynecologist and general practitioner, but her symptoms and clinical signs were dismissed and her diagnosis was delayed for several years. The importance of taking a complete history and focusing on the patient’s concerns is emphasized. The value of seeing a nurse practitioner or primary care physician who knows the patient and may have more time to listen to the patient is discussed. The differential diagnosis of Ms. Devers condition is discussed with an emphasis on the possibility of hyperthyroidism. Once hyperthyroidism is diagnosed with low serum thyrotropin (TSH) and GD is confirmed by measuring the specific serological biomarker TSH receptor antibodies (TSH-R-Ab), it is important to review with the patient the nature of the disease, the treatment plan, and the prognosis. Advances in the diagnosis of GD with an emphasis on the importance of measuring anti-TSH-R-Ab is emphasized. Risk factors for GD and other autoimmune diseases, including genetic, environmental, and behavioral are discussed. Ms. Devers emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy when interacting medical providers.