Maria E. Diaz-Gonzalez de Ferris, MD, MPH, PhD

Growing up, my father was a cardiovascular surgeon in Brazil, and from an early age, I was inspired by his passion for his work. Despite the long hours and weekend shifts, I never once saw him frustrated or complaining. He always approached his work with enthusiasm, often sharing fascinating stories about patient care or breakthroughs in research at the dinner table. I also witnessed firsthand the deep appreciation his patients had for the care he provided. The idea that you could make such a significant, positive impact on someone's life through your work was incredibly motivating to me. This early exposure to the profound role of a physician inspired me to pursue a career where I could dedicate myself to improving the lives of others. I believe that patients should be treated with the same care and respect as if they were close family members. As a surgeon, it is an incredible honor to be entrusted with your health, and I take that responsibility very seriously. My commitment is to always put forth my best effort, ensuring that every procedure is performed with precision and dedication. I strive to achieve the best possible outcome, working relentlessly to improve your quality of life and help you return to the activities and experiences you value most. To me, patient care goes beyond just the surgery—it’s about building trust, offering support, and being an advocate for your well-being every step of the way. My goal is to provide not only excellent surgical outcomes but also a sense of reassurance and partnership in your journey toward healing. When I am not at work, I love being outdoors—whether it's going for a run, hiking, or spending time at the beach with my family. Staying active is important to me, and I enjoy sports of all kinds. I've been passionate about tennis since I was a kid, and it’s still a favorite way for me to unwind. And, of course, being Brazilian, I have a deep love for soccer as well.

I feel fortunate to have an opportunity to be a physician and chose this profession because I truly enjoy caring for others while having fun and bringing a positive attitude to the clinic room or bedside in the hospital. I focus on creating a safe space for my patients by reducing stigma and talking openly about issues that are complex and difficult to talk about. Over the last few years, I have become more interested in the interaction of physical health, mental health and addiction. I focus on shared decision making and helping to support my patients healthcare goals. Outside of work, I like to spend time with my family, exercise, read and try new restaurants.

Located in Chapel Hill, NC, Matthew I. Milowsky, MD, FASCO, is a vital component of the UNC Health network. Specializing in delivering a wide array of healthcare services, these facilities prioritize patient-centric care in various medical fields such as primary care, urgent care, and specialized treatments. Through a strong emphasis on education and innovation, they work closely with the UNC School of Medicine to advance medical research and provide training opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals, aligning with UNC Health's core values of compassion, integrity, and excellence in service delivery. As a community-centered establishment, Matthew I. Milowsky, MD, FASCO, is dedicated to promoting wellness and enhancing access to top-quality healthcare services. Whether through hospitals, clinics, or specialty care centers, their mission revolves around improving the overall well-being of individuals while fostering a culture of exceptional care delivery. By integrating a holistic approach to healthcare and collaborating with medical experts, they strive to create a supportive environment that nurtures both patients and healthcare providers alike. Generated using this brand's available information