Almost a year after the heartbreaking loss of Matthew Perry, his sister Caitlin Morrison has shared her feelings about the tragedy and the ways the family is striving to commemorate his legacy. In a recent interview with HELLO! Canada dated October 23, 2024, Caitlin discussed her role as executive director of the Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada and emphasized how this position allows her to stay connected to him.
Reflecting on her involvement, Caitlin expressed:
“The work I’m undertaking now is quite personal because it feels like I’m collaborating with Matthew daily on something that mattered deeply to him. This opportunity is a treasured way for me to keep him very close in my life all the time, which is beautiful.”
She further highlighted Matthew Perry’s vibrant character:
“He had this extraordinary talent for lighting up a space. When he entered a room, his energy was magnetic, and everyone instantly felt uplifted, hanging on to every word he said.”
Matthew Perry tragically passed away on October 28, 2023. He was discovered unresponsive in his jacuzzi by his assistant. Subsequent autopsy results revealed the cause of death as acute effects of ketamine, compounded by drowning and coronary artery disease along with the influence of buprenorphine.
“It was profoundly shocking” — Matthew Perry’s stepfather Keith shares thoughts on the actor’s death
During Caitlin Morrison’s reflections about the Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada, she was joined by Matthew’s stepfather, Keith Morrison, who articulated his sorrow and dedication to preserving Matthew’s memory. In an interview, Keith remarked:
“The news of Matthew’s passing was deeply shocking. Parents who lose a child will tell you that even if you somewhat anticipate the possibility, it still shatters you. We have chosen to harness our determination and focus on doing something productive.”
Keith, who became part of Matthew’s family in 1981, spoke about the foundation’s commitment to assisting those impacted by addiction. He expressed a desire to be remembered for making a difference in the lives of those struggling with addiction.
The foundation’s official website states:
“The Matthew Perry Foundation represents the realization of Matthew’s ongoing pledge to aid those grappling with addiction. We are inspired by his words, experiences, and passion for positively influencing as many lives as possible. The Matthew Perry Foundation supports initiatives that directly confront addiction within communities.”
Caitlin and Keith revealed that their motivation to champion the foundation stems from Matthew’s struggle with ketamine dependence. Various media outlets, including The Hollywood Reporter, reported that the actor had utilized ketamine to alleviate his anxiety.
This marks not the first moment Caitlin has addressed the loss of her brother. Previously, she penned an op-ed for the Toronto Star, conveying the family’s grief following Perry’s passing. In that piece, she wrote:
“People often believe that the unusual circumstances render the loss more difficult. They might say, ‘I’m sorry for your loss. Especially considering all the attention; it must complicate things.’ While I appreciate their sympathy, I often feel compelled to correct them. Grief can be isolating, yet sharing my loss publicly has lightened some of that loneliness.”
In the months subsequent to Perry’s passing, the LAPD initiated an investigation, resulting in charges being leveled against his assistant, two doctors, and two drug dealers, with three of them pleading guilty. Meanwhile, fans continue to celebrate Chandler Bing from F.R.I.E.N.D.S., frequently sharing tributes to Matthew and reflecting on the profound impact of his untimely death.
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