Viola Carey has been on a long and emotional weight loss journey, filled with countless diets, doctors and sometimes discouragement. From a young age, she was aware of her weight struggles, having grown up in a family where being large was the norm. Over the years, she tried everything—restrictive programs, intense exercise routines and multiple physicians.

In 2025, at 200 pounds more than her healthy body weight, Viola underwent gastric bypass surgery. She lost 100 pounds but unfortunately started to regain weight. By October 2023, she had regained 48 pounds and that’s when her primary care physician referred her to Anita Gribble, PA-C, at FryeCare Medical Weight Loss in order to resume her journey and get back on track. From the very first appointment, Viola knew something was different. Instead of judgment, she received compassion. Anita looked at her and said something Viola had never heard from a doctor: “It’s not your fault and I’m going to help you.” That moment marked a turning point.

FryeCare’s back on track’s medical weight loss program is a custom treatment plan to help patients achieve and maintain health goals. It mimics the immediate postoperative diet following bariatric surgery. Since starting the program, Viola has lost 60 pounds and more importantly, she’s gained confidence, support and a new perspective on health. The care she received was personalized, compassionate and effective. Anita has addressed not just the physical aspect of weight loss, but also the emotional and mental components. The program combines medical support, lifestyle guidance and genuine encouragement, all tailored to Viola’s needs.

Now over a year into the program, Viola says she no longer dreads going to the doctor. She looks forward to her visits, where the team always greets her with kindness and warmth. “There’s laughter in that office,” said Viola, “and I’ve never once felt like I didn’t belong.”

What stands out most to Viola is the unwavering support, not just from Anita but from the entire staff. She’s referred numerous friends and family members to the program, several of whom have experienced their own success stories thanks to the same compassionate care.

Viola is not at her final goal weight yet, but for the first time, she’s confident she’ll get there. “This program gave me more than weight loss,” she shares. “It gave me my life back.” She now believes in the power of preventive care and feels that she’s added years to her life through healthier habits and consistent support.

Her story is proof that with the right guidance and encouragement, lasting change is possible and it’s never too late to take control of your health.

FryeCare Medical Weight Loss is committed to helping patients reach their weight loss goals. The clinic plays a central role in advancing Frye Regional’s mission of making communities healthier® by providing evidence-based obesity treatment. Through a multi-disciplinary model—encompassing lifestyle counseling, behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery—the program delivers personalized care plans that include nutritional counseling, physical activity support and behavioral change strategies. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact FryeCare Medical Weight Loss at 828-324-9865.

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