One year after beloved actor Matthew Perry's death, his family recalls his final days and commits to preserving his memory. Perry, renowned for his portrayal on the sitcom "Friends", died on October 28, 2023, at age 54 after accidentally overdosing on ketamine.
According to People, the Perry family commemorates the somber anniversary by launching a foundation aimed at promoting positivity and honoring Matthew's legacy.
Keith Morrison, Perry’s stepfather, detailed the frequent battles with death that Perry faced over the years, exacerbated by his struggles with substance abuse. Doctors often warned the family of the looming danger, confronting them with the harsh reality that Perry might not survive.
"Over the years, Matthew was on the brink of death several times," Morrison said. He recounted instances where doctors predicted imminent loss, preparing the family for the worst.
Amid this turmoil, Perry’s final interactions with his family were filled with expressions of love and an unexpected sense of peace. He became more communicative, reaching out to loved ones frequently — a shift from his usual demeanor.
"He seemed so at peace," Morrison shared. "He kept reaching out to embrace his family members, repeatedly telling them how much he loved and missed them." Indeed, this behavioral change, as Morrison noted, might have been spurred by an acceptance of his fate.
Meanwhile, Suzanne Morrison, Matthew’s mother, recalled a poignant conversation where Perry expressed profound happiness and affection. "It felt almost like a premonition," she remarked, further underlining a shared sentiment of inevitability around his sudden decline in health.
Following his passing, the Morrisons were devastated; however, they became motivated to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies. Consequently, Keith Morrison emphasized, "We are like millions of families who wake up to the harsh reality of a loved one lost to drugs."
In a working testament to their son's memory, they announced the establishment of The Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada. This initiative focuses on fostering positivity and providing support to others dealing with the impacts of substance abuse.
Keith Morrison elaborated on the foundation's mission, stating, "It's a way for us to channel our grief into something that honors Matthew’s memory in a meaningful way."
According to experts, drug-related fatalities as seen in Perry's case are alarmingly common, shedding light on a broader crisis. The foundation aims to raise awareness and offer resources that could potentially save lives.
Keith continued by sharing how Matthew's struggles had, over the years, stirred the family’s deepest fears and sympathies. "Matthew's mother will never be the same," he confessed, revealing the profound impact of their loss. Each day, the pain of losing him intertwines with memories of Perry’s spirit and kindness, which linger within the family.
By instituting the foundation in his honor, they aim to safeguard his legacy and influence on society. In recalling the goodness within the difficulty of his final moments, they cement a vision of hope, focusing on Matthew's warmth and the deep connections he finally embraced.
Therefore, Matthew Perry's legacy does not end with his passing. Through this new foundation, his family ensures that his journey is remembered not only for his battles but also for the love and joy he spread, even in his final chapters. They believe this to be a fitting tribute, one that would undoubtedly make Perry proud.
