Foundation will continue Matthew Perry's work helping those struggling with 'the disease of addiction'
A foundation in Matthew Perry's name will help those struggling with addiction.
The Matthew Perry Foundation was announced on Friday, less than a week from the actor's death. The charity said in its mission statement it they will continue Perry's "enduring commitment to helping others struggling with the disease of addiction."
"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," the foundation states on its website.
The National Philanthropic Trust will manage the foundation and no other details were released as of Friday.
During his life, the Emmy-nominated actor opened up about his challenges with substance use. In his 2022 memoir, he detailed the array of health complications he experienced including alcohol-induced erectile dysfunction and pancreatitis at age 30. Perry nearly died and was left in a coma, on life support, after his colon exploded at age 49 due to opioid abuse. He wrote that the traumatic experience ultimately "miraculously remove(d) my desire to take drugs."
In fall of last year, he said he was 18 months sober and grateful to be alive to finally share his story for other addicts facing stigma and judgment to hear.
"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," Perry said in a quote from his memoir provided by the foundation.
"Addiction is far too powerful for anyone to defeat alone. But together, one day at a time, we can beat it down."
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