TOMS RIVER – John Brogan, who assisted the local departments in addiction counseling, was found dead of an overdose in Philadelphia. He was 42.
Life coaches work with addicts because they know what it’s like to be one. Brogan had told his stories of hitting rock bottom, having an epiphany, and then getting clean for himself and for his family. He would speak at schools and at larger community gatherings. He would work with individuals to try to get them straight.
After getting clean, he had started Lifeline Recovery Support Services in Toms River at the height of the opioid epidemic. He partnered with then-Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato on programs to help addicts get help instead of the revolving door of jail.
He had worked with other districts as well. “Mr. Brogan assisted many law enforcement agencies in opioid prevention, and we will always appreciate his insight and assistance on important initiatives in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, as we continue to work hard in the fight against drugs,” the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office said.
Philadelphia Health Department reported that he died of an accidental overdose on July 29 at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel.
His obituary said he was a sales agent for Terra Insurance in Philadelphia. “He had been a strong advocate for those in need of rehabilitation from substance abuse and helped many individuals struggling with alcohol and substance abuse,” it said. He left behind three daughters as well as other family.
