Page 61 - Panama City Living July-August 2019

THE MERRITTS
set records in the United States, but more importantly, he lived a great life.”
Jason’s battle would eventually lead to a turning point in the Merritts’ own lives, leading Regina and Dr. Merritt to establish VitalityPro as a business, to share and further expand their research, and help others along the way.
Perhaps the deep friendships, or perhaps his own humble upbringing as a preacher’s son in rural Alabama are the reasons why a conversation with Dr. Merritt will quickly lead to deep thought. “I sure miss Jason now, but we'll see each other again,” he says. His faith is strong, despite having experienced deep loss and sadness. He is devoted to the cause, to his family, and his church. He has treated pro-athletes, world-famous rock stars, and entrepreneurs with worldwide impact, all while balancing his work as an ER doctor and providing charitable work for non-profits and committees close to home.
Stepping inside the Merritts’ house, the décor speaks volumes about the family and their love for each other and their passion. There are photos of the boys and places they traveled to as well as celebrities they are friends with. Alabama Football memorabilia can be seen everywhere as the entire family goes and watches the games together. Throughout the house, dozens of surfboards hang on the walls or sit ready on racks—the Merritts often walk the few steps across the road to catch waves in the Gulf, weather allowing. Dr. Merritt picked up surfing as a hobby
during his time at Pepperdine University in Malibu. It became a pastime, and the ultimate reminder to find balance in life.
They smile when we ask how they measure happiness in life. What’s the recipe, we want to know? "Regina helps keep us anchored to our fundamentals, which are faith, family, friends, and sometimes football," Dr. Merritt explains with a large smile. They then sit back, answering this and other questions in stride, with a wink, and their typical enthusiasm and warmth.
How did you and Regina meet?
Frank: We went on our first date in Birmingham, Alabama, while I was in residency. We had a great day. And I didn't have any money back then, and only little sleep because the working hours were very long and I think I took her to someplace I could not afford, P.F. Chang’s probably.
Regina: [laughs] No, it was the restaurant right beside P.F. Chang’s, an Italian place.
Frank: Yeah, that’s right, the Italian place. Classically, I'm driving her back thinking, okay, this has been a good day. I thought I did great, being a young eligible doctor in Birmingham.
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