03 November 2023 , 16:12
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Matthew Perry was vocal about his struggles with addiction in the last years of his life, and now his family is going to carry on his message.
It's reported that the late actor was planning to create an organisation to help others months before his untimely death. Almost a week after he was found in his house, his family launched The Matthew Perry Foundation.
The website shares quotes from the Chandler Bing actor about addiction and his legacy. "When I die, I don't want 'Friends' to be the first thing that's mentioned – I want helping others to be the first thing that's mentioned. And I'm going to live the rest of my life proving that," he said. "Addiction is far too powerful for anyone to defeat alone. But together, one day at a time, we can beat it down."
READ MORE: Matthew Perry set for a touching posthumous award but only if his family choose to accept
Matthew said he wanted to be remembered for helping others (Getty Images)At the bottom of the webpage, the site lists its mission and a link to donate. "The Matthew Perry Foundation is the realization of Matthew's enduring commitment to helping others struggling with the disease of addiction," it read. "It will honor his legacy and be guided by his own words and experiences and driven by his passion for making a difference in as many lives as possible. Please join us."
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Matthew was tragically found by his assistant in his hot tub on Saturday. He had spent two hours playing Pickleball before returning home and sending his assistant on an errand. When the assistant returned they found him underwater and tried to get him air before calling the paramedics, who pronounced him dead at the scene.
The actor was seen in good spirits the day before (Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)Law enforcement said they "found antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and a COPD drug in the house" but a cause of death has not yet been reported. Athenna Crosby, a 25-year-old model, met with Matthew 24 hours before his death and claimed that the 54-year-old actor was in " extremely good spirits."
The two chatted over dinner at the Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, where Athenna added that Matthew talked "enthusiastically about the things that he had coming up in his life." She also stressed that she was not romantically involved with him and they had met months ago through a mutual friend.
*Frank offers confidential advice about drugs and addiction (email [email protected], message 82111 or call 0300 123 6600) or the NHS has information about getting help. If you are struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction, advice and support can be found at alcoholchange.org.uk