Megan Angelina Webbley, 31, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 29. Specifically, she died of an overdose, finally losing her battle with addiction. She was in Manchester, N.H., seeking treatment for her addiction. We have no clear picture of what went wrong. Megan leaves behind her mother, Dorothy Provenzano, of Boca Raton, Fla.; her father, Edwin Webbley, of Middlebury, Vt.; and her brother, Michael Henderson, of Los Angeles, Calif.; as well as many loving cousins, aunts and uncles. She also left behind four beautiful children who were collectively the light of her dark life.
Though shadowed by opiate addiction, Megan enjoyed a big smile and an infectious laugh. She loved all kinds of music, dancing and doing her makeup. Empathetic in the extreme, she was the underdog’s biggest advocate. And against all circumstances, when she could be, she was a loving, gentle and doting mother. Just last year, she spent a few hours in the pool with all four kids (the youngest has since been adopted by a loving family), and it was a rollicking, madcap outing featuring a waterslide and peals of laughter. It was at that point when she was the happiest we had seen her in years.
Megan grew up in St. Albans and Georgia, Vt., participating in dance and swimming. She proved to be an adventuresome reader and a fearless jumper off cliffs. But on July 1, 2005, she was once again at a cliff on Eagle Bay in Burlington. I was sitting at my desk on the first day of a new job, and a Vermont State Policeman called to tell me to drive to the emergency room at the University of Vermont Medical Center. I was told that she had been pushed off the cliffs and hit the rocks below … with her face. Having been rescued by a man in a kayak and EMTs, she was being stitched up, and her jaw was wired shut. They suspected a TBI, but when they prescribed her liberal doses of opiates, she lost control of her life. She would be in and out of rehab — and jail — for the next 14 years.
To editorialize, I am hoping that the Department for Children and Families rethinks its mission to be the punisher of addicted mothers, the separator of families and the arbiter of children’s futures, and instead embrace a mission of enhanced rehabilitation. We, as a state, are overwhelmed by addiction. We have almost nowhere to turn. I encourage enhanced funding for treatment in general and using DCF as a gateway for mothers with addiction to get help. Because, as one would guess, once the mother is separated from her children, desperation sets in, even with the brightest and most determined of mothers — and Megan Angelina Webbley was that bright and determined mother … with a fatal disease and a dearth of treatment options.
—Submitted by Megan’s father
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This article appears in Oct 2-8, 2019.
This is a heartbreaking recount of a life lost…far too soon. People become addicted to opiates as a result of injuries, and it changes their lives forever. The victims are family and loved ones who struggle to help. This is a reality that can happen to anyone. It is not restricted to poor ….it can happen to anyone child…spouse…it is a disease that steals everything you love and cherish. I praise the person who wrote this…it took courage to tell and I pray it touches a lot of lives that are at the turn in the road when faced with the temptation.
A very brave response by her family. It would be all to easy to retreat into the pain of such a loss. Godspeed Megan and blessings to her family.
Though it may have been caused by an act of cruelty on those cliffs, the system failed her and at a young age, she is lost to us all, especially her children. When we will ever learn.
I am so sorry for your loss of Meghan and for all the pain she endured being separated from her children. This speaks to the need for the development of treatment programs that involve parents and children together, preserving instead of destroying families.
God rest Megan’s soul. I knew her and she AWAYS accepted me for who I was and am, and I remember taking lon walks with her and she was an amazing woman, strong, fierce and independent when needing to be. I think the only people she ever truly needed in life was her beautiful children and the support she received from her parents. I will miss you greatly, Megan, and I hope you find the peace you deserve and to her children; Your mommy will always be watching over you, and when you feel lonely (this part to her parents and loved ones also,) just talk to her like she is to there in he room with you.
This is heartbreaking beyond words, for that beautiful young woman’s lost life and suffering, for her precious children whom will never recover from the loss of their birth mother, regardless of those that love and care for the children in her absence, for the family left behind to struggle with the feelings of inadequacy for being unable to save their loved one, and for society as a whole, because we have failed once again to provide sufficient resources to help heal this young life.
The Drs prescribe the opiates, knowing they’re additive, it’s hsappened to my young nephew, the systm is not just failind miserably, it’s killing our children & grandchildren. Parents, look out, they don’t get paid by keeping us healthy!
What a lovely spirit she is. Sending blessings to Megans family and friends for courage and healing.
This is heartbreaking It hits home as I also lost my beloved daughter Ashley Sessions Gebo on September 28th, 2016 of a drug overdose. The loss has been debilitating She left her 4-year-old son with the imprint of her death. I pray every day for some answers to this devastating epidemic.
So sorry for this ( yet another families ) loss.
Holly Nunn
Middlebury Vt.
My heart breaks for your loss. Thank you for telling her difficult story.
So sorry for your loss sending prayers your way
Thank you so much for your courage and strength to share Megans story, and advocate for change. Im so sorry for your loss, sending prayers and my love for all that loved her. May she rest in heavenly peace.
Peace to this beautiful young woman and her family.
My heart breaks. I continue the work toward a solution.
Broke my heart and i totally agree with the idea of children advocates being more involved in building families then tearing them apart. A sick mother needs her children as much a sick child needs thier mother.
My heart goes out to all of Megans family and friends. I wish things were different but thank you for making the brave decision to continue to educate through Megans obituary. Our country can do better for our citizens. Ignorance and denying isnt helping anyone. Rest In Peace sweet funny loving Megan. I hope her family and friends take time to rest and try to heal. Advocate and educate! Hey U.S., when we know better we do better!
My prayers for the loved ones of this precious lady. Thank you to her family for being open and honest. Your courage helps end the stigma that causes so many to hide in shame.
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Addiction is so tragic, and I can feel your pain when reading this obituary. I hope you will find peace and some comfort in those great memories, and I hope the raw truth you’ve written will help someone who is struggling. Sending you hugs. You are not alone in your grief.
We need to look at the roots of this, see why so many of our young folks need to escape. Give support and direction. And two hands working accomplish more than a thousand clasped in prayer – we need to work for this!
So very brave & selfless of you to make Meghans untimely and tragic death clear to those of us who have dealt with and continue to suffer the anguish of our adult childrens addictions. Incarceration without rehabilitation is wrong for these struggling souls. This toxic, degrading, punitive environment does so much to perpetuate their already low self image, destructive behaviors and depression. Removing children from the afflicted parent removes their reasons to recover and to live. I am so very sorry for your loss. I fear, daily, the possibilities of losing both of my sons and feeling even more keenly your indescribable grieving for your beautiful daughter. You have my compassion, empathy and prayers at this most difficult time and beyond.
I was friends with Megan during junior high and lived just down the street from her for several years. Hearing of her death, at such a young age–at just a year older than me now–and of some brief idea of the deep pain and suffering she and her family has endured these past 14 years, is heart-wrenching.
Megan taught me how to apply makeup and encouraged me to try green olives for the first time. We danced and dressed up together. She had such a bright, warm enthusiasm and zest for life, music, beauty. I am grateful I had the chance to know her, if only for a little while.
I’m sorry to hear Megan’s life, health and connection with her children tragically veered so far off the track she seemed to be building towards in youth, and ended this way.
I wish her loved ones well. I hope you find peace and comfort in the happy memories you had with her, despite the deep pain and sorrow you must be overwhelmed with at the loss of such a lovely human, and the struggles you have been enduring for years as Megan fought her chemical dependence.
Thank you for your courage in sharing her story. To have a chance to heal others struggling with addiction, and their families, to try to prevent further lives from ending this way, talking openly, against stigma and shame, is essential. I can’t imagine how difficult it is to do that. Thank you.
I too lost my daughter at age 37 to this disease in 2015. There are no words that even come close to describing the pain of this loss. If you have a Compassionate Friends group that meets in your area, I encourage you to attend and be with other parents who also have lost children. Thank you for using Megan’s obituary as a way to educate others about the crisis Vermont and every state is facing.
So so very sorry for your profound loss! Love and hugs!
Courage I can’t even wrap my mind around…to post a truthful, honest, account of your Angel. Words are limited to express my deepest sympathy.
Condolences to the family. She sounds like a wonderful person. She had such a beautiful and radiant smile. No, the state should offer rehabilitation and not separate the mothers from addicted children. It’s also punishing the child who needs the mother. Isn’t there a home for addicted moms in New Hampshire?
What a tragedy that began from that accident.
I am so sick for your loss. My son died from a heroin overdose and also suffered from opiate addiction due to a TBI. They did an article in Mountain Magazine. “The Spike in our Veins” about athletes and overdose. If I can help anyone with anything please call me. My name is Margery Keasler and my number is 802-310-3301
Also, I have a grief group for those lost to opiate overdose. GRASP( Grieving recovery after a substance passing). The pain is incomprehensible and please call if I can help in any way.
This hit me to the core. I will state I don’t know her ,but I know her. I was her . I am so sorry. I am so so sorry. I cannot ever say anything that will right these many many wrongs. She was robbed at an early moment in life from her later moments. She had something taken she hadn’t even received yet. Again my condolences.
sorry for your loss, may she rest safely in the arms of the angels
This hits very close to home and is incredibly heartbreaking…it would be wonderful if DCF was a source of assistance where mothers could go to for help in this battle but unfortunately they’re a source for ripping families apart and creating problems that don’t exist. This isn’t hearsay, I myself am a victim of prescribed opioids for years and although under different circumstances, DCF took my family from me and I had to fight really hard to get them back. I know a few families that had to fight to get back together. They aren’t a source for positive assistance.
Far too many. Prayers and hugs. Praying bold families like you help make changes happen. Thank you for Sharing your beautiful daughters story with us.
Dorothy, first please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your beautiful daughter. Second, thank you so much for your honest, and beautifully written obituary. My family has endured the suffering and trauma of battling addiction for many years. We know too many parents who’ve lost their children to this dreadful disease. Like you we hope government and the population in general can address this deadly epidemic head on with every available resource. May you always be comforted with your fondest memories of your beautiful Megan. Godspeed…
I am incredibly sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. My family has not struggled with addiction but I do know the pain of being involved with DCF.My daughter lost her parental rights due to having a lower than average IQ score and DCF placed my only granddaughter with strangers while many fit and willing family members fought for placement. I grieve the loss of my granddaughter every day and I cannot even imagine having to bare this pain while also fighting addiction. God bless you and your family.
To say her life “veered off the tracks” is to put the blame on her for taking pain killers, addictive or not, for the unbearable pain she must have suffered at that cruel act – being pushed off a cliff onto rocks! No one can really help anyone with injuries and an outcome like that. People abandon and scorn others with “problems.” God bless her soul and her dear childrens’ souls.
This was the most poignantly and beautifully written obit I have ever read. I did not know Megan but you made me feel like I did. My heart is heavy for her family, her friends and most of all her children. I am so very sorry for your loss. It is time we got serious about treating this as a disease and offering people the assistance they need.
That was a beautiful and honest obituary. I myself am a recovering opiate addict. I began my addiction through pain medication as well. I began to develope severe rheumatoid arthritis in mid twenties, and at that time I had 2 young sons,my husband,work,and was going to college,so the pills made my life seem so much more manageable. Although it took over a decade for me to begin abusing my meds, once I did, I quickly was introduced to heroin. After a few yrs of that terrible lifestyle,my boyfriend overdosed with my children at home. Luckily we had narcan, two of us worked on him while my youngest son (15 at the time) called 911. I knew from that night on things had to change. I got rid of the boyfriend soon after,and am now happy to say I have 2 yrs and 4 months clean. Although my boys are now young adults (18 and 21) our relationships are stronger than ever. If I hadn’t made the changes needed this could have very well been my own fate. Rest Easy beautiful young lady.
I’m so sorry for loss and what a honest and caring obituary well written . I have a daughter in recovery and using her experience to help others as a adolescent counselor . I as her Mother suffered when she was abusing pain meds and anti- anxiety meds also. What a nightmare for all who suffers..eventually I lost a sister and sister in law to over dose on heroin. I also lost a nephew to suicide due to drug addiction and depression. I suffered so much loss and never did I have addiction to drugs but I lived with and loved dearly those that had used . I would never wish any of this on anybody …ever …prayers to all
Thank you so much for posting this, and Im so sorry for the death of your beautiful daughter. Meghan sounds like she was an amazing person. I am 34 years old and struggle with addiction, and Im reading this in tears. It scares me that one day this will be me and my family will be the ones writing this, and I just appreciate so much that you are sharing your pain as well as the times Meghan had her joy because us as addicts can relate as well and it hits home and just makes me want to try that much harder. God bless you, and may she Rest In Peace.
Megan was such an amazingly kind caring and beautiful woman! She was a great mother and she always cared more about the person left behind. She always wanted to be inclusive of everyone and she was extremely selfless at times! I will never forget how she carried me through some pretty dark times with just her positive vibes and her laugh! Her laugh and smile was as bright as the sun itself! Thank you Megan for being strong enough for the both of us at times when I needed it! Your friendship could never be replaced!
My condolences to the family and prayers for the little ones!
You are brave and strong. I mourn your loss. I am so sorry. Bless you and yours. I will work to help those in your shoes.
My PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU FROM ONE MOTHER OF AN ADDICT TO ANOTHER and where CPS got involved! My adult daughter at the time age 23 became pregnant didn’t get into treatment so I did what I thought was right to protect the unborn and called CPS in hopes they would intervene and help me get her court ordered to jail or rehab until the baby was born safely! Much to my surprise cps told me nothing they could do! Then nine months later my Grandson is BORN ADDICTED…. then guess what CPS GETS INVOLVED they deny me placement seek no relative placement which is the law by the way to place with BIO FAMILY well sadly they got away with it I Pray you have your Grand children if not APPEAL AND FIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And for anyone here talking about cps don’t speak on a topic you are not informed about and get informed they are a RICO CORRUPT AGENCY…
MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO MEGANS FAMILY. WE ALSO LOST OUR SON JOSHUA TO SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER. MY HEART IS WITH YOU & HER CHILDREN. IT IS HEARTBREAKING TO WATCH OUR CHILDREN GROW UP WITHOUT THEIR MOMS AND DADS. THANK YOU FOR THE BEAUTIFUL AND HONEST OBITUARY. OUR CHILDREN ARE AMAZING AND THEY DESERVE TO BE REMEMBERED THAT WAY . ADDICTION IS A DISEASE, ONE THAT ROBBED US OF OUR CHILDREN. PRAYERS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
My prayers are with you Mom and Dad. I would love to tell you time will heal your heart but it will not after years of thinking why questioning everything you have ever done and thinking if I had done this or that but you finally realize that you did do all you could for your child you loved them you not anything you did caused this as you have stated she had an illness. One day you will have moments of time that you smile again and you have beautiful Grandchildren that you still have here to help you through and that you will see your daughter through them. I believe in Heaven and that there is a eternal home waiting comfort each other with that. Every time that I as God to help me to get through another dark night he always did and he will help you. Your heart may never completely heal but time does help does not fix but it will be better. Hold on to Jesus he is all that helps.
I only came across this from a post to a on a Facebook page relating to addiction, but the telling of this story shines light in a place that thrives in the darkness. When broken people only have a broken system to rely on, the much longed for path to sobriety is nothing but a crap shoot. Add to the mix little children, who indeed need to remain innocent and you have the recipe for disaster. Perhaps there’s a way to help addicted parents and keep families in tact, I certainly can’t speak to that with any particulars. My beloved daughter is just about 2 years clean and I know it’s not easy or a guarantee for life that she’ll always thrive as she is now. As much as this young womans struggles caused separation from her children, I can’t help but think at the end of the day, innocent young children deserve to be raised in a stable home while adults deal with their problems. So yes, the goal could be keeping families in tact, but the children’s needs come first. I hope that doesn’t sound uncaring, because I care a lot about people getting sober and staying that way. I wish this woman had found peace and healing here on earth. I know this family is deeply mourning. I hope they can give voice to the changes that are so needed.
Im at a loss for words at the sudden death of such a young person and did I read correctly that they are adopting out her kids I dont understand that I think she would want all her kids to stay togeathet and I (as a family member or close friend ) would want every part of her sorry if this offends anyone its just my feelings
I lost my nephew to drugs also. This is heartbreaking. Hit them in the pocket book you now have a lawsuit against the creator or oxycodone. Know that she is at peace and in a beautiful place and you will see her again. Sometimes people need so much compassion and love they can only get from God and I believe as soon as she passed love was there to sooth her soul and heal it. Now she will be with her child all the time and be her angel
My deepest condolences to the family of Megan Angelina Webbley. I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the your loving memories of your beloved Megan and also look to our Heavenly Father, the God of all comfort, to provide what you need at this very sad time. (2Cor 1:3&4, Psalms 83:18) He promises us that very soon, He will wipe every tear from our eyes and death will be no more……Rev 21:4 and that there will be a resurrection of our loved ones that we have lost in death (Acts 24:15). May these promises from God, who cannot lie, comfort you and give you peace and hope in this most difficult time. My deepest sympathies! jw.org
I’m sorry for the loss of this young woman. But I respectfully have to disagree that children shouldn’t be separated from their mothers. I have custody of my granddaughter and there is no doubt in my mind horrible things would have happened to her had I not taken steps to keep her safe. MOST children are in dangerous situations due to their parents being on drugs and it’s not only the best thing but the right thing to remove those children from their mother.
My heart goes out to her whole family especially her children. My thoughts go out to all who suffer from this dreaded disease of addiction.
Addiction is a horrible disease. There were many times when my children probably should have been taken away from me. The truth is, until I found recovery, I was not a good parent. I did not think I was harming them by sitting on the couch and using. I provided a home, food and a roof over their heads. What I didn’t provide them was my time and attention. Neglect is abuse. Plain and simple. I didn’t know Megan and I wouldn’t presume to say that she neglected her children. I just know what I did, or didn’t do, as the case may be. 130 people die in this country every day from the disease of addiction. That is a very tragic statistic. The disease wants us to be miserable until we eventually find recovery or die from it. It is a terminal disease. We can either die with it, or die from it. Any one of us could be listed in an obituary on any given day. There was a time when I didn’t care if I lived or died. I wish that Megan was still with us. Not for the sake of her kids, but for the sake of herself. I would have loved to have seen her big smile and heard her infectious laugh. She would have given so many people hope. I will pray for her soul and also for the well-being of her children. May she rest in peace.
I did not know your beautiful child but I have battled the same demons and my daughter has also fought them. By the grace of god my child is 6 years clean and no he’s second child in 2 years. Your words were so important and so accurate. I pray the failed system will finally recognize addiction for the disease it is. Stop taking these children and start helping them get help and stay together. You don’t take a diabetics children or someone with heart disease, you give them the medication they need to function so do the same for these young parents. God bless your family and may peace finally be with your daughter.
Condolences to the children and family. Heartbreaking to hear of yet another person lost to addiction. Pain medication is needed when there is an injury, and I have a hard time blaming all doctors as a general, but if only there were a way to monitor patients that were put on pain meds more closely to identify the problem before it became a problem. As I wish, there was a way to keep children with there parents while they seek treatment safely. I don’t know what the answer is! I wish I did! Horrific to think of these children alone. The story speaks of only one of the children being adopted; please tell me all of these children are with someone…please!! They have endured enough!
Megan and I met many many years ago while we were both tenants of the State of Vermont. No matter what challenges she herself was facing in the moment, she was very much a “people person”, always thinking of those around her. The world is definately a bit darker without her bright light shining.
Thank you Mr. Webbley for sharing. I met Meghan briefly on Easter Sunday 2019 in Brattleboro, and she was an amazing young woman. I know one thing she loved you, her father. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Sincerely
Sara Moses
Im so very sorry the loss of your beautiful daughter.
Its a struggle that unless youve walked in the shoes of an addict or the parent of one its impossible to truly understand.
As the mother of a recovering addict that has lost her son I know how hard she tries over and over and over to stay sober and do the right thing, meetings, work, staying positive, everyday is a battle of beating herself up mentally.
She has overdosed 4 times ( that she has told me about) but I still live in fear everyday for that phone call
My heart breaks for you her children and everyone that was lucky enough to know this beautiful young woman.
May God be with you all
240 a day to alcohol, 120 to overdose. None of this gets beet without honesty. There was a time when young men were dying of cancer because families were too consumed by shame to say AIDS. That community learned in a hurry that silence = death. We must do the same. Well done to this grieving dad to think about other families in the wake of this crisis. We can do better than we we do and honesty like this is part of the solution.
Wow I’m so sorry for your loss. This is me I am an addict who has been fighting n fighting dss for my kids back. I was clean ten months got them back n relapsed one time n they took them again and now I might lose them for good and I’m doing everything they want me to do classes programs steady employment n housing and doctors n mental health bc they want me to be a clean super mom with super powers n I am just that but it’s not good enough for them I wish I knew where to turn or who to talk to bc I’m so worried the outcome of my court date Monday which determines if they take my rights n adoubt my kids out or let me keep fighting which I will until my last breathe. My babies are my world and I’m nothing without them I need them just as much as they need me. I wish someone would really look into my case bc they r litteraly killing me slowly n not helping me any to keep my family relaspe is a part of recovery but when dss makes it out like Im a monster for that one relaspe n took my babies I hit rock bottom n almost died a few times till my counselor stayed on top of me. I pray they do something bout this horrible system we have God bless you.
I am so sorry for your loss :'(
There is a saying I have heard several times in recovery – 1 addict dies for another to live
I can’t pretend to know what your family is going threw, but all I can say is thank you to your beautiful daughter for another day to live! <3
I’m happy to read that her children are being adopted and not put in foster care! I pray for them! They are the ones to protect!!!
May you rest in peace and may God help the family to have peace. I’m so sorry!
I am so sorry for your loss. Sending many prayers to you and your family.
I lost my father last year from an opioid overdose. He was a veteran, a father, a grandfather and so much more to so many people. After his heart surgery in 2004, life was never the same, the withdrawals, the doctor shopping, the rehabs, the desperate attempt to obtain more pills, although the VA was kind enough to start mailing them without even seeing him, for years. VA is still the heartbeat to the opioid crisis. My dad was 67 and wanted nothing more than to enjoy fishing, his children and grandchildren and life again. He said at that end if he got through it he wanted to tell his story, now thats left for me to do as it is for this father. Who, like me was living this nightmare before anyone else in the world ever saw it coming. God bless, May your daughter find comfort with all the others in heaven that are finally flying high.
Almost every family in America is affected by addiction. It is sad.
Thank you for sharing Megan’s story. I hope your family find healing and peace.
I could not say it better than the writer who said “this was the most poignantly and beautifully written obit I have ever read”. Although I did not have the privilege of knowing your Megan, I have known more “Megans” than I care to count who have been loving, bright lights lost to the demon of addiction.
And, as an aside, nothing grinds me more, as someone blessed with 32 years of recovery, than to hear that ignorant rhetoric repeated to a suffering parent that “some addicts must die so that others can live”. Utter rubbish. No addicts need to die. But as the giant gaping hole in your heart proves, they do. Megan’s loss, and your beautiful tribute to her, serves to fuel my fire in service to the ones who are in my community that I can reach a hand to, and offer the gift of recovery that was offered to me. And we continue to pray that they will reach back. May God bless and keep you, and your family in the coming years.
Friend, please accept my condolences.
I’ve been a childcare worker at a group home for youth in crisis, a cop, a DCF Social Worker, a juvenile probation officer, and am related to an addict who after many years of struggle mercifully has reached stable sobriety for several years. I’ve seen this problem from all sides.
I am also the father of a child who has died. So, what I say here please accept as being with great solemness and respect for your staggering loss. … We are all doing the best we can in this life; and that includes you
I am not sure there is hope to be had. have not found peace, but I am closer to it than I was. My prayer is that your journey is smoother than mine.
Thank you for you truthful words…My son died of an overdose also “huffing” he went to Rehab in Florida which I later found out to late was a joke…….I have learned so much way to late….the pain and grief and sorrow and guilt will carry me to my grave. Thank GOD I have him in my life to get me thru each day fortyone months on the 13th.
I am truly sorry for your beautiful daughter’s loss. I am dealing with an addict in recovery, my son who is 9 months clean, 24 yrs old and living at home. He has been to several rehabs and sober livings and admitted that he had to decide to be ready for recovery. I feel your pain as I came so close to losing him and it never ends. I send my heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
To Megans Family,
Please accept my sincere sympathy for the enormous loss you have suffered. I lost my big brother to a heroine overdose in 1964. His addiction started with a high school football injury to his knee. After the painkillers were stopped, he turned to heroine. He left behind 3 beautiful little girls and a wife who never stopped loving him. He was 22 years old. I know of so many families who are affected by addiction, its heart wrenching. I hope they find a solution soon. We are losing some of our best and brightest.
Again, you have my condolences for your loss. I truly feel your pain. God bless you, and God bless Megan.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter’s story with us. This is filled with truth and wisdom. God bless those who love her.
So sorry. As a parent I have also been there. We lost our daughter Hayley in a car accident 18 years ago. She fought addiction until she was taken at the age of 20. Like your daughter, she was a precious soul with so much compassion for others. Parents are left to grieve. Prayers for you and her children. May you find wonderful peace. Her life mattered. She was so beautiful.
-Karen in Alabama
My husband and I are so very sorry for your loss. Her picture shows a beautiful soul. Prayers for you and your family Thank you for what you wrote. Our country has a long road ahead of us.
Kathleen Jefferson
Ann Arbor MI
I weep with you. My heart breaks with you. I do not know what else to say.
Hugs.
I am so sorry for your loss. My son is 40 and has been addicted since his late teens. I lost my youngest son at 31 from suicide. I know how hard this is…no words can convey the loss of a child. God’s comfort and peace to all loved ones
I did not know Megan however I also was diagnosed with a disease and given a insanely amount of opioids. My life would never be seen through my clear eyes and never could see my purpose or dreams again
The medical field and Drs continue to this day giving a medication that changed the world.
Punishment by incarceration and taking ones only true meaning and love from them is only exasperating the situation. When you crush someone who is already broken then it is insane to think they could deal with these feelings without numbing themselves. Now with Fentanyl numbing is only for a split second until they die.
God Bless
Thank you for sharing Megan’s tragic story. Maybe it will help all the Megans, and their families, cope with the despair of opiate addiction. I’ll bet you’ve just saved a few lives. God bless…
How heartbreaking. God bless your soul beautiful angel. God bless and comfort all your family and friends. What a devastating loss.
I dont know if you’ll see this… but Megan’s Dad, you may have just saved my life. I’m an addict. I started in a way similar to Megan. I’m a mother of two. I’m going to do everything I can, starting now, to make it so that my father never has to open a similar piece… and my kids have many joyous days in the sun like Megan’s day in the pool with her children.
My sincere, and deep, and sorrowful condolences for your loss, the kids’ loss, and society’s loss.
Addiction is an easy trap, but for those suffering from depression, it’s even easier. Having a TBI predisposes one to depression, and I suspect this is what is behind her overdose. What a very sad story.
Im so sorry to see this. Megan babysat for my children in 2003-04 when she worked at Saint Michaels Childcare Center. She even lived with us for a short time when she needed help in between apartments. She was a beautiful soul inside and out. She adored my kids and they loved her. Thank you Ed, for writing such a beautiful tribute to her and for including the reality of what happened to her. It serves the purpose of raising more awareness of how easy it is to become addicted to opiates. Rest In Peace Megan.
so very sad. when people have medication long term for injuries, there should be a plan to help them ease off the medication to ensure they are not reliant on the meds any longer. we as a society fail these individuals horribly. they get cut off of the medication and have no means to deal with the addiction, and unfortunately there are people out more then willing to help with the need to agent them addicted to illegal drugs. we as a society need to help individuals as addiction is a disease and should be treated as such. Dr. should have a plan to help wean people off of these long term drugs not just cut them off and leave them to fend for themselves.
Deepest condolences, a very sad story that breaks my heart. May she Rest In Eternal Peace,
These companies and doctors should be ashamed. We should compromise them the way they compromised those they addicted.
I pray that changes will come. We desperately need them. I am so sorry for your loss. I have 3 daughters who all are recovering addicts. At any minute, I know they could slip away again. I praise our judicial system for the ability to go to drug court. It saved one of my children. That being said, I fear the day shes released. As a mother, my heart goes out to you. As a fighter of this disease, my spirit and will go with you! May God Bless you and bring you peace.
So very sorry for the passing of your beautiful daughter. May her legacy be that of healing and helping others. May your family find Gods peace and comfort. I believe that this world and Heaven are separated by and thin veil that will one day be lifted. I will be praying for your family.
Thank you for being honest, you may have helped another family. Blessing I know the pain of losing a child. I hope you have faith it helps carry me on my darkest days. The pain never goes away but you learn to carry it.
Your story is heart wrenching
She was and is a beautiful angel now.
I hope sharing this tragic story there will be at least one person saved or helped or in the right place for help. I believe the lack of attention to handing opiates out like candy is the root cause to many tragedies.
Prayers to you and your family and friends of this beautiful young lady.
May she Rest In Peace in Gods arms xo
Hi, I am so sorry for your loss , upon reading your story it hits home to well. Also I was addicted to opiates for 8 years I am now clean 18 months I can not tell you what a struggle it was getting help and getting clean.. I felt so lost in calling rehab after rehab and they said sorry no beds or tried to get me a appointment 3 weeks later and on top of that it is very hard to find a job if you have a criminal record and in which I believe people go back to their old ways because of how discouraged they are when no one will hire you to rebuild your life so what is one to do!!! Honestly I then think of all I put my family, kids through. I just think what a messed up system we have maybe once someone gets out of jail or rehab there should be something for someone to look forward too again . Our society needs to know how much addiction is affecting peoples lives I am so sorry. Your family is in my prayers. Also I remember my sister saying this can not be happening to my sister who was raised in a great home, great childhood, but the reality is it can happen to anyone! Addiction DOES NOT discriminate
Condolences to the entire family of Megan; but most of all her children. What a beautiful tribute from Megan’s dad. I felt every word written in this memorial – may God rest your soul sweet Megan.
Rest in Peace sweet girl – I know exactly how you felt
This was beautifully written by Megan’s father who must have loved her so much and never stopped believing in her. I so could feel what he wrote. Thank you in the name of Megan and her children…what a great Grandpa they have! …my thoughts are with you. Much love and hope <3
We have programs in New Hampshire for moms with addiction why didn’t she have help getting in to a place like odesy house in Canterbury? I’ve never had to be in a program like that as I don’t struggle with addiction but I know other mothers who have and know people who have been court ordered into that program. Dcyf in this state is more about asperating the child from the parent then finding ways to make sure they stay together. Even if children are placed with family members they forbid the parent to have contact without their say so. They hurt more families then they help. With all this federal funding why haven’t more residential family rehabs been made available?
The whole thing is messed up. If she was in treatment how did she just pass away? Was there medical complications that happened that caused her to pass away? I know many people who have had serious issues with suboxone and subutex causing serotonin syndrome which mimics overdose. These are things people should be looking into before they rush to claim pain medications. Which all come with an informational insert that list all the risks. People need to stop pointing fingers and learn about accountability. When taken correctly the risk is super low for addiction.
Prayers for the children of this horrible tragedy as well to the rest of the family and friends.
Such a beautiful young woman. So sorry for your loss and her battle. No person should ever have to go through that.
Sending prayers and healing vibes, very well written, I worked in a treatment center for 4 1/2 sometimes heartbreaking times, but mostly very very rewarding times. I pray the world will get help from this epidemic
Thank you for sharing her story . It is so sad , these drs need to be held accountable. You are so brave I havent been able to share my son Josh Michael Killian who I lost in 2014 at the age of 25 . You give me strength.
So sorry for Megans passing. Thank you for sharing her story. God bless you and your family.
Sir, thank you for sharing your daughter’s story. I am actively involved in recovery myself. Your frank assessment serves your daughter’s memory well. God bless you and keep you.
So sorry for your loss:-( Praying for Gods comfort during this sorrowful time!
I have known the hurt of this terrible addiction. At least 3 of friends lost loved ones to overdose and 1 in our local media lost her daughter. Something needs to be done and soon. The family has my heart felt sympathy and prayers.
Im so so sorry for your loss , Peace , Love , and light
I’m so very sorry about your girl. She has similar traits most addicts have. Almost all of them are empaths. I lost my son John almost 4 years ago to an overdose. There are many groups on line for grieving moms. I’m so very sorry that you know qualify for those groups. I pray that God will comfort and strengthen you as you walk this long painful road of sorrow. God bless you.
I am so sorry for your loss and the pain her children must be feeling. I pray all are healed from this experience.
Celeste Taylor
This is so sad! Much love for the family speaking out against the ways of DCF. Everything they said is true..once they take your kids the total sense of loss & desperation sets in and there is NEVER anyone there to properly address that. It’s the unfair downfall of way too many. I’m sure this poor, beautiful girl felt hopeless & defeated. I pray that you all are somehow able to find peace
My wife & I are sending our deepest condolences to Megans children, her family and to all her friends. Our family lost Prince Rogers Nelson to an Opioid overdose in April 2016. To the world he was the legendary rockstar but to me he was my younger cousin who I loved very much. I know it took a lot of courage to share your daughters story and the pain associated with losing someone so special.
Charles & Victoria Smith
M I N N E A P O L I S, M I N N E S O T A
Justice4cuz.com
So Sorry For The Loss of this Woman and this sends a powerful message. My Prayers go out to her Family; especially her children. Another gone too soon. Prayers.
May You be blessed for sharing the loss of Megan to save lives,educate & support the tragedy that can potentially strike & has stricken so many families. Most of us have or know families that have dealt with the fears or the facts of such an addictive illness. Condolences to You & Your Family
My condolences to your family. I do not know any of you, however, I feel I have known Megan. See 31yrs ago, when Megan was born, I was in the grips of amphetamine addiction! I am as Megan will always be, a wonderful person with a very bad drug habit.
It is not an easy disease deal with. But by the Grace of God I have been clean & sober 32yrs!
We are mothers first and foremost even with that little devil on our shoulders with very difficult deliveries I to was prescribed endless opioids to a very long and dark road With the support of my amazing husband and beautiful daughters I was able to overcome this demon I pray for those that are on the road to recovery and most of all the ones we have lost along the way may your spirit rest may your pain be gone and my your heart live on
I am so sorry for your loss. We must make the opioid epidemic a national emergency. We must provide the same focus as we did to deal with the AIDS crisis. We are losing our children and our future by the hour to this disease. When will the politicians make this the priority it must be?
I just lost my dear sister of 35 who also battled opiate addiction. Her children were taken also and the torture and pain this caused led to more anguish and mental illness and more and more pills. ultimately she died from side effects of the many, many drugs she was prescribed. A modern tragedy. I am feeling your pain and sorrow and wish for something better for moms struggling.
Megan had a beautiful and bright heart. She loved her children so, so much and they are so adorable. I am so sorry for the pain you are feeling right now.
I am so sorry for your loss. As a medical provider there is no way we can know who will become dependent or addicted to opiates or not. When a patient is in pain we feel obligated to treat that pain. However we need to be responsible to give the least amount for the least amount of time to control the worst of the pain and also use ibuprofen and other non opiates for pain. Im very conservative and encouage the use of analgesics but that isnt always enough. I inherited patients from a provider who retired who were on high doses of opiates and benzodiazepines. Most have switched successfully to suboxone and ibuprofen and other non opiate pain meds. And have reduced the amount of benzos significantly or completely discontinued its use. Many of the providers I know and work with feel as I do and we are trying to use opiates as little as possible. There is a DNA test that identifies which medications will work the best for a person including pain meds and so much more. It helps so we take the guess work out of prescribing medications and what will work the best including potential side effects, interactions etc. It has been a life saver for my patients literally. Please ask your provider about this test. Im happy to help you locate a provider who offers this in their practice.
Jody Stubler, FNP-C 385-275-4673 OFFICE
Thank you for speaking so truthfully about your daughter. This disease doesnt discriminate however unfortunately DCF sees day in and day out newborns addicted and kids traumatized by this terrible epidemic. Casework responsibilities have almost doubled in the past 10 years not to mention caseload sizes bring completely unmanageable mostly due to this disease. The value we place on children and family services in our country is disgraceful and DCF is completely underfunded. Much of the staff suffers from compassion fatigue or ptsd. They are constantly blamed for everything by everyone. My sons father passed of an overdose after battling the disease for many years and its heart wrenching to watch him suffer and to think how hes going to have to live the rest of his life trying to make sense of what happened to his father. My heart breaks for your grandchildren and Im so sorry for your loss.
Beautifully stated. Prayers for you and your family.
May God bless you . Its difficult to lose a child , twice , the first time we lose hope the second time they leave this earthly domain. As parents we put our trust in what we think will help our children, we never want harm to come to them. Big pharmaceutical companies and hospitals have got to be responsible at some point for a whole generation of addicted and deceased young people. Beautiful souls that did not wake up one day and say I want to be an addict. Your story counts , your daughters death does not go in vain. Because we are starting to hold Drs and pharmaceuticals accountable . I pray you and your family find peace.
Dearest family and friends of Megan Angelina Webbley. Hold your hearts and each other’s hearts with gentle hands. Blessed be.
What a tragic story! I have had my run with opiate addiction and it takes over your life. I was one of the lucky ones that has broken the cycle. But at one time I was up to 30 20mg Lortabs a day… back when you could order online!! Im lucky Im not dead cause I had five prescriptions going at once.
Its possible to get clean but you cant do it alone. It takes a village.
God bless your family, I personally understand your heartache.
I am so sad for you and your daughter’s children. Heartbreaking to say the least.
Such a beautiful princess and sad she has passed. Pray her kids will do well and write a book about their Mother. Her life will have an impact on others who suffer from the dreadful disease. So sorry for the loss
of this beautiful lady and for her family. Please keep in prayer always.
This is such a heartbreaking story! Megan may you rest in peace sweet ANGEL. This epidemic is truly profound and my prayers every single day are to let this epidemic cease. There are absolutely no words to express but to know there are more and more young innocent people who are going through this. I sincerely agree and support Megan’s dad , once the addicted mother is separated from her child’s desperation sets in. Praying for Peace & Comfort for this family!
Prayers to her loving family. I lost my beautiful 24 year old son the same exact way almost five years ago.A severe injury and subsequently prescribed opiates for his chronic pain. When the doc stopped prescribing him opiates he immediately found heroin. Our babies are dying all over the country! She sounds so much like my Zachary. Empathetic..creative..energetic..and immensely compassionate in everything he did. Hugs from another brokenhearted mother.
Thank you for having the courage to shine a light within her obituary on the dark subject of addiction. An overdose took my 22 year old daughter last month. I pray you find out what happened and it give you some peace. She is among the angels.
How brave of you to share your daughters story!! There needs to be more families like this, not being ashamed but being able to maybe save someone else’s life. I’m very very sorry for your loss. I am very sorry for the childrens loss, and other family members. I am a recovering addict, and will celebrate 1 year clean tomorrow, and I feel like I was just in the right place to read this story. It is important that we share our stories, stop the stigma on addiction. Being ashamed of who you are or who your family members are will help nobody!! Everyone in some way is touched by addiction, so many people think, not me, not my child, but guess what, that’s what I thought and what my mother thought. Those kids now have to go on with no mommy, bc of a cruel disease that takes too many people away every single day. If I can do this anyone can!! Thank you again for sharing this. God bless you and your family
Im so incredibly sorry. Such beautiful and important words. As a parent I know your grief must be immeasurable. Thank you for speaking the truth and sharing her story.
Genuinely sorry for the loss of your precious daughter! For those who have a loved one suffering, I urge you to do research before sending to treatment centers. I lost my beautiful niece who was in a facility.
https://www.fredericksburg.com/obituaries/sperry-lauren-lynn/article_17553a15-0c92-5a8d-bcea-a434a2176ab0.html
There are many under investigation by the FBI. They are a business looking to bill insurance companies. Dig deeper. They are not to be paying for flights. Lauren told us they would pay residents for finding new addicts to check in to the facility. The FBI informed us that their investigation extended to the laboratory the facility used, as well. If a resident in the half way house failed a drug test or it was inconclusive they were sent back to inpatient status for two weeks. The facility then billed insurance again. If only we had believed our niece and brought her home sooner.
I’m so sorry. Thank you for sharing beautiful Megan’s story. Thank you for bringing to light the lack of help for addicts. People say just go to rehab, but they don’t understand that the options here are thousands each month. My Son is currently serving a 180 day jail sentence and I’m scared for him to get out. I have Narcan with me at all times. He’s 35 years old and it’s been heartbreaking to see him struggle. The punishments and fines only dig the addicts hole they’re in deeper. Paying the fines when they’re not allowed to drive makes it harder to find work. The cities are profiting off the addicts when that money should go back to help the addicts. Bless you and thank you again for your courage.
Im so sorry for your incredible loss! I am raising my granddaughter for the same disease. She doesnt have the excuse of pain meds but mental illness and not liking how you feel and self medicating. She is alive and supposedly clean but I mourn her everyday as she is lost in that illness and we dont see her anymore. I agree that we need to do more especially for the ones who want the help. Know you will see her again and she is pain free and free if the crippling demon she fought.
I am so sorry for your loss. I believe that when a Mother has been separated from her children she doesnt feel the same urgency to get help as she would if her kids were there with her. I personally would go to the ends of this earth for my kids but I also have not been in someones shoes like Megan’s. I pray for healing for her family, children & friends during this difficult time
I can’t even imagine the amount of grief you, your family, and her children are feeling. I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing her, the real her with us, including the struggle. I pray her life, and even her passing brings courage to someone, and to an industry to be wiser, kinder, and more compassionate. (PS it’s beyond me how anyone can dislike any of these posts, but oh well, it’s a crazy world we live in)
I knew Megan, and this is such an accurate and heart wrenching description of her. All I can picture is her beautiful smile and her contagious laughter. She had a really positive spirit, and was always avle to empathize and cheer people on. She made you believe in yourself. I struggled with a heroin addiction for 25 years, right up until I got pregnant with my daughter at the age of 35. Having my daughter was enough for me and I haven’t touched a drug since. I have 43 months sober, I am a recovery coach at a suboxone clinic now. I am pregnant for my second. People can change when they have purpose. When children are taken from their mothers due to addiction issues I believe they are forced to numb themselves to keep going. I have lost so many people to addiction, and my heart is broken to hear about Megan. All we can do is try to fight the stigma, and advocate for sober houses and programs that permit and promote reunification and fast. I am so sorry for your loss. I want you to know that she talked about u and her mom with so much love and adoration. I really respect u trying to affect change. That is my mission also. Thank you so much for that. I will always remember Megan fondly.
Thank you for sharing your heartbreaking but very powerful story with us! An injury sent me on a years-long battle with addiction to opiates. I am one of the lucky ones that find long-term sobriety after many close calls with accidental overdose. We still have not figured this out as a society, nor are we doing enough to address opiate addiction (and other substances)! While our leaders engage in accusations, petty squabbles and our media spends its time covering the soap opera, the scourge of addiction rages, and our fellow citizens are suffering and dying! We must demand more from our leaders to address our very real, very critical problems! My heart goes out to Megan’s family, especially her parents and children, and to all of you who have lost precious loved ones and friends to this deadly disease! May you find peace and healing in the memories of life shared with Megan, gone too soon!
Thank you so much for opening up about the true nature of Meghans death. So often families are unable to find the strength to be so honest as they feel there will be a stigma brought to the family and the name of the loved one lost. Addiction is a cunning and baffling disease that is subject to relapse and tears apart families. It is with a heavy heart that I say I have known many who have succumbed to the disease and many more who continue to fight for their lives. I am in the field of addiction and ran a half way house for women, a half way house for men as well as a supportive living program for years. I was fortunate to be a part of many happy endings, unfortunately because of the nature of the disease I was more often than not a witness to its destruction. You and Meghan are in my thoughts and prayers. Please reach out to self help meetings as families do get a lot of comfort from those that are in the same boat, so to speak. Be there for each other and for those beautiful children.
So sorry for your loss.We have lost so many young people to this
disease.prayers for her.her family and friends.esp. her children.
Beautiful woman w/ horrible disease. Lord, God, please help her children to survive healthily. Help them to be surrounded by your love in your way. This is sad for her children. Please provide for them all they need and help them to know you at an early age through your involvement in their lives. You, Lord, only you, are able to do this. And you Lord, please do it for your glory and honor and to further your kingdom through our Savior Jesus. Amen.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. Opiates are ruining lives everywhere and it has touched all of us. Thank you for sharing the story of her life…both the good and hard times so it can make a difference. It’s not fair. Sending prayers and will share her story.
I lost my own beautiful, vibrant, youngest daughter to the opioid crisis. In a car accident at the age of 15, resulting in a broken back and in pain 24/7, she was prescribed opioids and denied surgery by medicaid. Pain overtook her life and then opioids took her life. Our family and friends will never be the same. My heart joins yours in this awful club you have just joined.Im so very sorry for your loss.
I remember Megan from dance class with Cheryl Ann. My daughter Jessica, Megan and another girl did a trio competition dance and did very well. She was a sweet girl (they were in their early teens at the time). I am so sorry to read your obituary and hear of Megan ‘s struggle with dependency issues. I wholeheartedly agree that we need to do more to prevent prescription drug abuse in our state. My deepest condolences to you.
Im so sorry I do relate what you family is going through. I lost a nephew to drugs he took his life left behind 2 boys they was a very young age at the time of his passing. I feel so bad for her family and her children losing a loved one this way is very sad Its always the what ifs are what could we have done different. Im praying for the family and her kids . I cant say it gets easier it dont we just learn to hold on to the memories and live each day with them and let the kids know how much their parents loved them . Drug addiction is evil its a hard battle to win and most just lose hope and give up . Its really sad I pray God will wrap his arms around the family and the kids and hold you tight hes the only one that can make it easier .
How tragic Im so sorry prayers to the family and her children. I lost a nephew to drugs I cant say it gets easier we just have to live with the beautiful memories we had of our loved ones . And keep the love alive through the kids they leave behind . Its horrible drugs rips families apart its a evil battle and most give up . Im keeping the family in my prayers and the children. Keep your eyes on God he will get you through the days ahead . Keep her memories alive and let her kids know how much their mother loved them and theyll help you also
So sorry for your tragic and unnecessary loss. She surely was a special spirit being. I blame the insatiable greed of Big Pharma, careless doctors and thoughtless policy that fails at truly helping those who are addicted.
Thank you for being so amazingly brave. I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
I’m truly sorry for your loss. But it’s not DCF’s fault that she loss her children. She had a drug problem. Sadly, the drugs took over and she could find her way back. Sorry but it was her fault that she loss her children. Drugs were more important and that is the sad part about drug addicts and drug addiction is a disease. If she truly wanted her kids back she would have fought hard to find her way back. Again sorry for your loss.
My prayers for the family of these warrior. So very sorry she lost her battle. Sending love and prayers for her family. Bless her family for speaking the truth in this heartbreaking time. She was not her addiction. She was a daughter and a mother and my heart breaks for all the wonderful young people lost from this horrible disease. Prayers for comfort
Am praying for the children, family and friends of Megan. My heart breaks for you all. Such a tragic loss. I agree that our country needs to make substance abuse a top priority as it is killing our youth. We need easy affordable access to treatment. We need the public to stop looking down at those afflicted. These people need rehab not jail. As the mother of an adult child that suffers with addiction I know the pain, fear, heartache that comes with this disease. I pray constantly for my son to overcome. I know if he lost his children he would join Megan. Those children are his life. His reason to keep trying even if he relapses he fights once more to climb out of that pit he calls hell. God Bless you Megan. God bless those babies of yours. And God bless this entire family. Many prayers for all who are dealing with this horrible affliction.
I too have that awful disease but fortunately I am currently winning. I will continue to advocate and fight for others like myself and Megan in hopes that one day this disease will no longer take any lives. Prayers for Megan’s family.
Placing the blame for addiction on doctors who prescribe medications to assist with pain control and a system that aims to protect children is foolish. Millions of people take opioid medications to control pain and stop taking them upon resolution of that pain with no issues. DCF removes children in order to protect them from addiction and the harm that comes from it. Regardless of our age, we are always deeply influenced by the people who raise us. These influences include not only the genes inherited from biological parents, but also the behaviors, habits, values, and communication styles that we learn from our adult caregivers. This same pattern applies to the way we use alcohol or drugs. In homes where one or more adults abuse alcohol or drugs, children are approximately twice as likely to develop addictive disorders themselves. These children are also more likely to experience poor performance in school, emotional and behavioral problems, Low self esteem, a higher risk of developing anxiety or depression, earlier onset of experimentation with drugs or alcohol…..I could go on and on. Blaming other people means never having to say sorry. If other people are responsible for the bad things that happen in life then the individual can avoid feelings of culpability. Those who fall into addiction will frequently blame other people for their predicament. It is only when they take responsibility for their situation that they can be free. There are resources available for addicts, but they dont stand any chance of helping if the addict doesnt want to help themselves. Advocating for placing blame is only enabling addicts to justify their addiction.
I thought the same we way until it happened to my daughter. She kept it a secret. She was introduced to the drug by her long term bf who shot her up the first time. I truly believe she wanted to know why he loved heroine more than her. He was toxic for her but she loved him. After years of being with him, trying to save him from his destructive life I guess she gave in. She threw in the towel you could say and he finally convinced her. She was brought up to be strong, to fight the bad and she thought she could all by herself. She became pregnant and tried to quit but became so sick and being convinced by her bf that quitting wasn’t an opition she continued to use, never reaching out for help bc she wss slave ashamed. She was always a bright, smart, caring, and loving girl. She was cared for by many and many families. Then she had her baby girl. She kept from everyone that she was born addicted to heroine until DSS told her that she must have a protector for Hollyn. My granddaughter. She lived with us and her baby. She was ordered to have drug classes and pass drug tests. She passed but not truthfully. She went to every class, worked, and took outstanding care of her daughter.
She couldn’t bare losing the love of her life, her baby. So she chose not again to reach out. She knew DSS would not close her case. Again she thought she could just stop and once everything was settled she’s begin a new life. I beg you to educate yourself on the mind of addiction and how powerful of a drug heroine is. It’s not always your typical junkie persona. I found this out when it was too late with my daughter lifeless, purple, and slumped over the bathtub after she stepped out of the shower. She was brain dead and no matter how much CPR wss given as I wiped the throw up from her mouth which each compression given it didn’t change. I sat with her four days at MUSC day and night until they could make the final call. This is the story of an addict, the story of my daughter. 11.11.94-09.24.19
Why isn’t it is drug control important to you? We are losing our children daily bc of drug dealers, slack of education and drug programs. It’s right here on our islands, our beautiful city, your community!!
Why isn’t this a main focus? Brittney Nichole Fisher I will fight for you!
Thank you for sharing your story, may it bring full attention to this crisis! Strength and prayers are being sent to you and your family
Sending strength & prayers to her children & her dad. May she Rest in the Sweetest of Peace
Addiction is a horrible disease & we need to help!!!!
I am so sorry. Your family is not alone…
Someone please look at the place she was living in .
My heart breaks. I wish her peace after her life of struggling.
Thank you and the people who shared memories of this beautiful young woman.
I feel compelled to reply to this, although I know there really aren’t any words for your pain and loss. I also agree that more help is needed and as long as the children aren’t in danger it would be more beneficial to keep the family together and give rehab and support as a family unit. No one benefits from being shamed, it has the opposite reaction.
Sending prayers, love, strength, comfort and peace to everyone.
Thank you for sharing Megan’s story
Tragic and sad
I’m wondering what happened to the rest of the children if the baby has been adopted out? Wouldn’t you want to keep them together?
I am so extremely sorry for your loss. It makes me sad and sick to my stomach to read this obit. I too am a recovering addict and mourning the loss of my 8 year old daughter. DCF took her from my entire family April of 2016. Visits were framed “emotionally damaging” even though I was clean and had been for some time. My parental rights were terminated last year. I haven’t been allowed to see my daughter in over 2 years. Zero contact. Mind you, I’ve been lucky enough to stay out if jail (but have been arrested and convicted countless times) and, shocking to some, I have never committed a violent crime. My felonies were forging prescriptions. But, DCF was determined to rip her away from us completely. Even my parents haven’t been allowed to see her.. Bc of my addiction problem. DCF needs to be handled. This is happening all over the country try (I live in Massachusetts). We need to come away from punishing an illness and start supporting recovery! And one simply can never fully recover without their children and families.
God bless you all.
So sorry for your loss. Im fighting this same battle with my daughters. God bless . sending prayers
When a mama loses they’re children a piece of they’re heart is gone. How can we go on without our heart?! We can’t. I didn’t. For a long time i didn’t. God gave me another chance at being a full-time mom again and I’m 24 days clean today! I will continue my fight for sobriety in her honor and every other mother fighting thus same fight!
Same happened to me. I was in a car accident and they was given me pills. I was 12? I’m 46 an still fighting. I know with God I can do all things. This is sad Praying peace through the family
Prayers to the family and all that loved Megan!!!! Yes there needs to be more help for those addicted!!!! We all need to push for more help for addiction, one that all can afford.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I have a 29 year old son that has battled opiate addiction for over a decade. The Doctors that hand out prescriptions in generous portions are the root of this problem. I’ve seen my son steal, I’ve seen him on life support multiple times and I continue daily to watch his struggles to stay clean. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I feel for this family and her children. As the adoptive parent of 3 wonderful kiddos whom also suffered the loss of their mother at a young age due to opiate overdose (also in a recovery center)….. I am so sorry and may they get the therapy/counseling they will need…. also know the love their mother had for them and can open their hearts to accept the love and encouragement of the people in their lives 🙂 never stop talking about her, display pictures, and seek answers to their questions with honesty and understanding 🙂 much love!!
I’m so sorry to read this. I am raising my granddaughter because of this awful disease and mental illness. I refused to let DCF take her from our family and I am committed to raising her and giving her the love she deserves. May you be comforted in knowing she is at peace and you will see her again someday., God willing.
I am so sorry for your loss. I also lost my son Kevin at age 29 due to addiction to opioids. He also incurred a horrific accident and was prescribed theses drugs at age 16. After 13 years of prison several releases and relapses he lost his battle. I am not sure how these drugs can be legal especially since they ultimately lead to the death of our loved one’s. God bless the family
From my grieving heart to yours. A kind woman told me that some of us make better angels than people. I’m sure she was talking about your girl and mine. I lost my daughter Claire Lajoie to an overdose on 9/13/19, a day after she turned 22. No parent should know the loss of a child. The complicit local, state and federal leadership believes it’s too broad and deep a problem to fix. An entire generation will be lost to opiates if we don’t. Keep talking. Keep advocating. Keep praying. And VOTE. Peace.
Our system failed her, and failed her children. Not only by beginning the overprescribing of opiates, but then all over again by the lack of treatment options available for her to recover. Its a vicious circle, and its truly a tragic story for so many of our loved ones!
The system is broken.!
God bless her and her family and those kids!
Coming from someone who has had addiction issues before, I have to say that anyone who either can’t get clean or leave us too early, arent even considering what happens afterwards. I survived a suicide attempt and it made me realize what it would have done to my folks. But, when at that place, your mind can’t think of snything except escaping thier reality now. My heart goes out to each and every family or friends dealing with this. God be with you all!
My heart broke to read this. I know exactly how Megans parents are feeling. We lost our daughter in March. She suffered from depression most of her life, and tried to self-medicate by taking the extra opiates that her husband had been prescribed after major surgery. Unfortunately she became addicted and when the pills ran out, she turned to heroin. Thus began a horror story for everyone involved that lasted several years not know when the call would come that she was dead. We expected death by overdose, or maybe being killed in a drug deal gone wrong. But our call came while we were having dinner on March 11. It was the warden of the county prison. He bluntly said: Im sorry to inform you that your daughter is deceased. She had hung herself.
I agree with Megans parents that there has to be a better way to treat this disease. Addiction is the only disease where the person suffering is turned into a criminal for trying to ease their suffering. Harm Reduction is the path forward to treat addiction and prevent these unnecessary deaths like Megan and my daughter who left behind three children. Honest obituaries like Megans parents wrote will help.
This was hard for me to read. Another young beautiful soul taken too soon. Shes not suffering any longer and can peacefully watch over her loved ones. Hate this epidemic and everything it takes from everyone. Especially family members and the innocent children 🙁 sorry for your loss. Rip beautiful Megan.
My condolences on ur loss.. no amount of words can ever ease ur pain ..so I only leave u with two #Tears&TIME
Addiction is indeed a family disease, and I congratulate you on your overcoming your tragic grief and using this as a forum to reach out to others. May you find peace as you educate others and may your beautiful daughter now find the peace that escaped her here on earth. God Bless you all during this most difficult time.
Thank you for sharing, I am so sorry for your loss and my heart breaks for Meagan and her children and her parents and family. God has her now she is not suffering,may he help each and everyone of you to get through your great loss
This is such a horrible tragedy. My heart goes out to you and your family. We need to do more, we need to do better. Too many lives lost because adequate help was not available. May you find strength and blessings and may her soul rest in peace.
Wonderful response by Megan’s father. I am behind you all the way. I have one child clean after many years of drugs and alcohol. Another that needs help. Our economy is so stretched right now for many of the wrong things. There are so many out there not getting the help they need.
I also have a son that is a police officer. He says so much of what they do is with addicts or the mentally ill. I pray that you and your family can find the peace you need. I know Megan is in peace. Love and prayers to all of you.
What is grief?
Ive had grief in my life, most people have. But I can tell you one thing, Ive never had grief like this.
What does Grief look like? It looks like someone who is just trying to breathe and cant even manage to brush their own teeth. It looks like sorrow, despair, hopelessness, stress and anxiety.
It looks like searching for answers Questions Never finding what will make it feel better
Its the endless thought of why? Why? Why did this happen?
Grief. What is grief?
Grief is the aftermath from loving someone more than life itself. That is grief.
Heart wrenching story I think everyone knows someone who is addicted sadly. prayers and peace for the whole family
We grieve for you and ALL the families out there suffering with the addiction of a loved one. It is a horrid existence for them and for us. Something truly needs to be done before an entire generation is obliterated. Its not a problem for someone else, addiction is a horror that can affect anyone. Im so sorry for your daughter, her children and her entire family.
May Megan Rest In Peace. Thank you Edwin fit sharing her story. She represents the ills of opioid addiction of too many. Im sorry for your loss. Prayers for peace to all who loved her
Oh my…I am very sorry for the loss of this beautiful woman, daughter, mother, cousin,n aunt..Such a huge problem in this crazy world in which we live in…I agree that DSS should help these parents and not keep the children from the parents..It only makes the parent weaker n more lost by not having her children n feeling like a failure…The Drs. don’t help, the system is all backwards…If there’s no help 4 the parents to get clean n get their children back, it becomes a vicious cycle, n with the kids not having their parents in their life, as they get older, either they follow the same steps or they are able 2 get counseling n have close family 2 love them, and they choose not to use…Unfortunantely, there are always going 2 be meds and drugs. How people choose 2 take them or not, is a result of how their life might end up being…SO SAD…
Hardcore honesty and sincerity that may save another life. Beautifully written from the heart and soul and my deepest condolences go out to the family.
I am so sorry for your loss. You have a wonderful idea for possible change where addiction is concerned. Everytime I hear about another person involved with the disease of addiction it becomes more painful. So many people want to help and that gives hope to all touched by addiction. Alcoholics Anonymous has people in every community that provide education on the disease concept and recovery ideas for the professional community (ie. anyone in the medical, educational, judicial communitys, also for employers, clergy ). Just call the local AA number and ask to speak with someone from the Connecting with the Professional Community/Public Information (CPC/PI) committee to call you. There is no cost and anyone wanting information can call. Accurate information breaks the stigma in all situations. Prayers to all.
Such a tragic story! Prayers and peace for this young girl and her family and friends. Thanks for sharing your story .
You are do brave to post such an obituary. I commend you that in the time of your sorrow you use this as an opportunity to educate the unknown and to try to make a difference. addiction is a very real problem and I have lost many to it. I empathize with you and wish your family love and support during these tough times. Thank you for sharing
God Rest Her Soul and to her Family and Children that were taken from her – May you all find peace in her not suffering from this Deadly Disease of Addiction anymore R.I.P. Magan
My girlfriend passed away from opiate addiction last month as well. 9-9-19. Her name was Megan Virginia Kelly. I am heartbroken and forever will be. I am so sorry you are feeling this terrible pain that I have. I can relate to what you are going through. Tons of love to you and your family. It doesn’t seem real that they are gone. I don’t know your family, BUT I LOVE YOU ALL. My name is Noah Pogany.
Thank you for using your heartbreak to help raise awareness. The alarms have been screaming for years and yet no help. I lost my son 2018. I will pray for you and your family. There is a song that we played at the beginning of my sons memorial video, I hope you will listen and it gives you some glimmer of peace for your beautiful daughter. The song: Love came down and rescue me by Hillsong
I’m a mother without her kids bc VT dcf chose to label me as an addict undeserving of help rehab or my kids. In their eyes I was worthless. I was clean when they took them and two days later tried to die by OD. By the grace of God I survived but I still don’t have my kids. I’ve been clean three years. They were adopted two years ago. This state offered me no help, only dcf telling me to give up my kids bc I’d never make it. I’m living proof people can change…but when u rip out entire world’s apart, that fighting spirit inside us just dies.
I pray for this woman’s children. I pray God gives them a life of love and happiness, and they remember their loving mother. To her family friends and especially father for writing this… You’re all stronger than you think. Never give up speaking for those who no longer can. Thank you for your honesty and sharing part of meaghans life with us all. Her story will change someone’s life, I’m sure of it.
I am so sorry for your loss. She is a beautiful young lady. I lost my son 4 months ago who was only 25. He became addicted after given an abundance supply of opiates from surgery due to a sport injury. Im including a link to his story. When will doctors and pharmaceutical companies to be held accountable for all the lives these drugs have destroyed?
https://nate-s-heart3.webnode.com/resume/
I am so sorry for your loss and pray for any comfort your family may be able to find during this devastating time. I applaud you for writing such a beautiful and honest obituary for her. So many just say “died suddenly” as though they should be ashamed and it breaks my heart. This story of her life truly shows how proud you are of her and the amount of love she was blessed with. She sounds like she was an amazing and beautiful person and mother struggling in a way that we with family members going through the same struggle are terrified of. Despite not knowing you, I am sending so much love and thoughts to you all.
God bless you and your family.
The system itself at fault ect..we all blame someone or something..
Rather it be education..communication..or having that someone that will make sure u never go in the wrong path or give up..the person that diesnt take no for an answer and can follow u everywhere
.its HARD to fight..such a strong overpowering addiction..this..gave me chills and touched me..rip angel..ur at peace now..look down and give companybto thpse that gace the same struggles..so they arent alone..
So sorry for your loss, you are so brave for telling her story. It is terrible how the drugs take over our kids life and distory it to the point that we don’t even know who our kids are my son was addicted to heroin and meth before he went to prison I really believe if he hadn’t went to prison I would’ve buried him. I pray you find peace.
The addiction is real and hard to overcome. I have a loved one who tried to od last week. We were in the ICU and once they were able to speak and decline any further treatment, we left! I tried to keep telling the staff please dont release and please tell the mental health people to hurry and assess so we can admit. But I was told the MH had 24 hours to come and the hospital cant force treatment. Are you kidding me? A bottle of muscle relaxers taken for the purpose of death is not a person who should have the choice to choose for themselves!!!! The system is broken! My loved one is addicted to opioids and feels helpless at times. This story is SO SAD and unfortunately will not be the last one until we find a system that works. May God grant the family peace and comfort in knowing Megan is no longer suffering. I feel so bad for the frustration it leaves for the ones left behind. Prayers for all.
Heroin is a bitch. I lost my sister to it 5 years ago. I feel your pain, it’s such a senseless tragedy. <3
So sorry I for the loss of your daughter. And it is so sad that our country spends millions of dollars on senseless
Things and don’t see what really needs to be addressed is addiction and parenting homelessness, if we don’t do something now we are really going to.be in big trouble worse than we even know. We need to go back to the basics start over teach these young parents how to be good mother’s fathers and how to love themselves and the rest will follow respect trust and love we are all equal and deserve a chance to life a healthy and long life people get a clue it’s time to stop blaming everyone and start healing com
e on to many people are dieing. God bless everyone
Thank you for sharing the story of your daughter. May God give you the grace and mercy to carry out your mission and help others in similar situations. Sending you special prayers for you and her children. May your daughter soul rest in glory with God. Take good care of yourself.
Our family also lost a special, smart, incredible human being to this senseless drug. Every week I hear of another death and life taken way to soon and I wonder when does it end. Your tribute to your daughter and all who suffer from this tragic disease is commendable. I wish our countries leaders would focus on this epidemic and do something to stop it. I pray for you and your family. The days ahead are going to be filled with questions, emptiness, anger, grief and the longing to see your beautiful daughter. Please know you are not alone and we are praying for comfort and peace. Thank you for having the courage to bring another face to this tragedy. I know your daughter is smiling as she looks down at you from her safe new home without pain and suffering. I am so so very sorry for your loss.
My condolences to this family right now. A former pill pooper also. I started after date raped in 08 and suffer from tbi and ptsd after 21 years of abuse and a domestic also 13 years ago.
I lost my youngest of four daughters six years ago. She died as the result of a sepsis infection caused by a dirty needle. She left behind two beautiful children and a heartbroken Mother, Father and three sisters. We need to help the addicts not criminalize them. This madness needs to stop, we are losing our precious children. I am praying for your family, so sorry for your loss.My daughter was 33 years young.
May she rest in peace. I’m so sorry for her children and family and friends. I know myself how hard this is. I have been clean for 1 year & 1/2 just about. I lost my youngest to DCF for almost a year. I did a program for three months and then went into a program for mother’s and children. I have sole custody of her now but my case is still open. Which was my choice at that time to leave it open. I completed the program but now I’m struggling with finding shelter or housing for us and the only help DCF has offered is to put her back in a foster home for now. My heart breaks for you and your grand hildren and all the children connected with DCF. God bless you all.
What a beautiful woman. Im so incredibly sorry for your loss. This obituary couldnt have been written any better. My brother passed away from an overdose and I had to write his obituary. I wish I had the strength and support to have written something more like this. The sad truth about losing our loved ones to this awful disease. I hope you and your family can find some comfort in the fact that she no longer is fighting one of the hardest fights out there. She can Rest In Peace. Sending love and light and hugs to your family and especially her children.
I am so sorry for your loss. These programs have been available for awhile, but they are scattered.
It is said “in the rooms” that “some die that others might live,” which is not meant to be comforting, but to be awareness-building. Thank you for sharing your family’s story so openly.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2851019/
My heart felt condolences to you and your family for the loss of your daughter, may God ease your pain. My family has known the power of the drug addiction in our middle son. He has fought his demons for over 18 years and it is just a vicious cycle. He handsome, smart and had a heart of gold. But his is a battle with xanax. Last March he spend the 5 day’s in ER ICU recovering from a near fatal overdose of this drug. After 7 months of being clean he relapsed, it cost him his job and almost everything he has. This is the cycle, he gets a good job, makes progress then another relapses again.
When take this drug, he doesn’t remember when he took one, then he takes more, last March he told 35 over a period of 48 hours.
He is seeking professional help this coming week.
Prayers and God Bless,
Sincerely, Terry Steward
That is so heartbreaking. We just lost our brother Chris on October 22. He fought his addiction hard for the past 8 years. Its devastating to say the least. Im so sorry for your loss.
I have never met Megan, but this obituary is a beautiful testament to the loving woman she must have been and serves as a much needed wake up call, to a country that seems blissful unaware of a dangerous situation.
My deepest condolences to Megans family, friends, and all who knew her. May Gods peace be with you all in this difficult time of celebrating her stolen life. May you be comforted in knowing that sharing her story may lead to help for those who are being robbed of their lives (or will be in the future).
It Just breaks my heat to read this. As a parent who has also lost a son to addiction at 24 years of age I applaud your brave and honest story. What a great tribute to your beautiful daughter. We also never hid the fact that our son died from his addiction. He did not want to be an addict as no one does … we could see the depression it brought to him with it. Another case of being in and out of Rehabs and jail. I am so very sorry for your loss and want to thank you so much for sharing her story.
May she be resting in sweet peace and dancing with the angels. I hope you and your family can take some comfort in knowing her pain and fight is behind her And her children have a very special guardian angel.
RIP sweet angel.
I battle addiction daily I am sober today (have been for 22 months)! Unfortunately my son was taken by his father, which wasn’t/isn’t the best situation. Long story but not going to go into it. My point is when u take a woman’s purpose, it causes them to “give up” and it makes getting sober and stayin sober more difficult. My heart is broken for her…
As a community pharmacist, I often get caught in the middle, trying hard to convince patients to try alternatives to opiates or opiate/Benzo/muscle relaxers combos. Nobody thinks it will happen to them. I see people with chronic opiate use for years, dose rarely changes, filled like clockwork.
I wish there was a way to counteract pain without the use of painkillers these deadly pills have taken the lives of so many whether through recreational or medical it doesnt matter though because they break so many families apart. I have experienced this firsthand not myself thank God. Its agonizing. My heart goes out to anyone who suffers.
The songs of Angels took Megan to see the face of God. May she have the peace she has been searching for. My deepest condolences to her family. Megan is gone, but remains in memories, that death cannot take away
So very sorry for your loss. You are so very brave for sharing your beautiful daughters sad story. Its a very hard thing to deal with and unless you have lived that life no one knows what a person is going through. I live with chronic pain every day now for the last five years. I am lucky that I have support from my family for this. May god bless you all and soar with the angels dear girl.
May God rest her soul….Drugs and alcohol have taken too many of our loved ones….
No parent should have to bury their children. All states need better mental health care, and compassion not making people feel they deserve less respect then others, and most definitely addiction and recovery centers that have a program for addicted parents. It does a number on you when you lose custody of your kids. Thanks for sharing her story with the world as difficult of a decision that must have been it needed to be heard. She’s your Guardian Angel now. I feel we need to put a program like Florida has a Marchmen act minus the being put in jail. Perhaps a locked metal health facility with dual diagnosis cause this does affect your mental health too. Xoxo Praying for all of you.
I am very sorry this beautiful young woman and her family have lived this life. I also have a daughter who is an addict with a child. This is the most important obituary I have ever read, I pray it helps one family. Thank you for this, and I pray for all of you, those precious children and for all of us that love this on going nightmare.
I am deeply sorry for your heartbreaking loss. As a mother of an addict, I relate to so much of your and Megan’s story. Thank you for adding awareness on the issues of addiction. Treatment truly is the only answer, but not all addicts are willing to commit. The State should work harder to restore families, not rip them apart.
My sincerest condolences,
Jan Baker
Tennessee
Thank you for your strength and courage in sharing Megans story. She sounds like a fearless warrior that lost her final battle. I hope her family will be able to wrap their loving arms around her blessed children and even more so that the system will move in a positive direction to help and not punish those afflicted by opiates.
I am so sorry. I will share this with the hopes that it will reach at least one person.
It’s a true travesty what happened to Megan and her entire family. I’m am very saddened to read this. Another thing that isn’t talked about much is that in VT there is no legal right for grandparents to get custody of the children when DCF wants to take the children away from the parent(s). That is extremely unfair and damaging to children and families.