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 Peter DiBiaso, Non-Executive Director at mdgroup, clinical research has always been more than a profession – it’s been a passion. With decades of experience in biopharmaceutical development and a deep commitment to patient advocacy, Peter has long championed the importance of putting patients at the heart of every trial. But when life took an unexpected turn, his perspective changed in ways he never anticipated. This is Peter’s story of resilience, redefinition and why patient-first care matters now more than ever.
“My entire adult life I’ve been an avid triathlete, competitive runner, outdoor enthusiast and committed fitness adherent. That was likely one of the primary reasons I thought nagging ankle “stiffness” and a slight right hand tremor was just part of what I should expect from aging. As conditions began worsening it was actually my wife who encouraged me to see a physician and after a series of tests and a referral to a movement disorder specialist at the age of 49 I was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s Disease (EOPD).
My immediate responses ranged from denial, anger and all the other classical stages of grief although this eventually led to acceptance. My focus then became focused on getting engaged and assessing how I could make an impact towards finding a cure.
I was immediately drawn towards the Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) which enabled me to maintain my pursuit of fitness events (New York City Marathon and summiting Mount Kilimanjaro) while raising funds to support research.
The irony is that I chose to pursue a career in biopharmaceutical development and I have long been a staunch advocate championing the role of the patient in clinical studies. I never expected I would become that patient. Most importantly I was able to directly experience just how critical the role of the caregiver is. I am so proud of the career I have chosen and the commitment of mdgroup.”
Recently, we had Peter on our very first mdgroup live, where he joined our Founder and CEO, Miriam Dervan, to share his remarkable journey from senior life sciences executive to patient advocate in more detail.
Watch the full episode here.
