At mdgroup, clinical research is more than a profession — it’s personal. Why We Care is a series of real-life stories from our team, sharing how clinical trials have touched their own lives, families, and communities. These experiences drive our passion for delivering remarkable patient-centric solutions and reinforce why we’re dedicated to making clinical trials more accessible, compassionate, and human.
Every story is a reminder that behind every data point is a person, and behind every treatment breakthrough is hope.
For Rafaela Mroz, Clinical Manager at mdgroup, clinical research has always been more than a career – it’s a calling rooted in both professional purpose and personal experience. Her journey began ten years ago as an intern at a major oncology hospital in Brazil, driven by a deep desire to make a difference. But it was her brother’s diagnosis with Wolfram Syndrome, a progressive rare disease, that brought the reality of rare diseases into sharp focus. Today, Rafaela channels that experience into her work at mdgroup, ensuring every patient feels seen, supported and empowered. This is her story of resilience, purpose and why a decade in clinical research has only deepened her belief in the power of compassionate care.
“In June, I reached a milestone that means a great deal to me: 10 years since I began my journey in clinical research, back in 2015!
My path started as an intern at a research site within a major oncology hospital in Brazil. From there, I moved on to another internship at a site focused on chronic kidney disease. These early roles sparked something in me – a sense of purpose, knowing that research could open doors to hope for so many. After graduating in Biomedical Science, I became a Clinical Research Coordinator at the chronic kidney disease site and committed myself fully to this field. From day one, I’ve given my all to every patient, every trial, every protocol, because I know that behind every visit is a story, a family, a fight.
My passion for healthcare runs deep. When my only brother was diagnosed with Wolfram Syndrome – a rare and progressive condition – I saw up close what it means to live with uncertainty. I used to accompany him and my parents to medical appointments, and I witnessed the emotional and physical toll it took on all of them. As a sister, that experience was deeply personal. As a healthcare professional, it became a driving force. Though my brother is not currently enrolled in a clinical trial, I remain hopeful that soon, he may be able to take part in one focused on Wolfram Syndrome. Until then, and always, I carry his story with me in the work I do.
For the past 4 years, I’ve been part of mdgroup as a Clinical Manager – and I genuinely love what we do here. Having been on the other side, I understand how essential it is to provide compassionate, tailored support for patients and their families. Our work is not just about logistics and timelines. It’s about showing people that they are seen, heard, and cared for.
What inspires me most is knowing that the work we do today not only impacts lives in the present – it can also touch thousands more in the future. That sense of purpose is what fuels me every day. This is why I care. This is why I show up every day with passion and purpose. Because I know that what we do at mdgroup matters – and that it truly changes lives.”
