The Irish Actor, Colin Farrell in a recent interview with People shared his experiences raising a kid with a rare genetic disorder. Farrell, the star of ‘The Penguin’, talked about his life with his son James, 20 years old, whom he shared with his ex, Kim Bordenave. James was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Angelman syndrome.
What is Angelman syndrome?
There is only 1 in 15,000 people who get diagnosed with Angelman syndrome. It is a rare neurogenetic disorder that causes delays in development and issues with speech and balance. The Angelman syndrome not only affects intellectual disability of an individual but also causes seizures sometimes. And while those with this syndrome may seem like they have a happy demeanor, it presents major challenges for those affected and their families.
Colin Farrell and His Son James
Collin Farrell, on August 7 in an interview with People said, “This is the first time I’ve spoken about it.” He further added, “I can’t ask James if he wants to do this, so I’m making the decision for him.”
Colin Farrell’s son Henry, 14 years old, is with his ex, Alicja Bachleda-Curús. While he talks to James as if he is a typical 20-year-old, he knows he must decide how much to share with the public about their life.
Colin Farrell’s Concerns as James Approaches Adulthood
Colin continued the interview and said, “I can’t get a clear answer from James on whether he’s comfortable with me talking about this.” He further said, “So I have to decide based on knowing his spirit, the kind of young man he is, and the goodness in his heart.” Colin Farrell expressed that he is extremely proud of his son by saying, “I’m proud of him every day because I just think he’s magic.”
Also Read: Zac Efron Hospitalized in Spain after a swimming incident in Ibiza
Challenges after Turning 21 with Angelman syndrome
The Oscar-nominated actor, Colin Farrell further expressed his concern for his son and explained that once James, who has Angelman syndrome, turns 21 years of age, he will no longer qualify for the support system that is made for children with special needs.
“Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own,” Colin Farrell said. “All the safeguards, like special education classes, disappear. So, you’re left with a young adult who should be a part of our society but often gets left behind.”
The Colin Farrell Foundation: Supporting Families with Special Needs
To address the same issue, Colin Farrell, 48 years of age, has launched the Colin Farrell Foundation. By starting this foundation, he aims to improve the lives of those with Angelman syndrome which is rare, along with helping those with intellectual disabilities by offering education, raising awareness, fighting for their rights, and creating innovative programs.
In the end, Colin shared that he wanted to help families who have kids with special needs for years, giving them the support they required in all areas of life. So now that James is close to 21, it feels like the right time to take action.
The actor is confident that his son would support the decision he made to start the Colin Farrell Foundation if he could express his thoughts.
“If what we’re doing could help other families and young adults with special needs, James would say, ‘Dad, why are you even asking? It’s a no-brainer,’” Colin Farrell explained. “So that’s why we’re doing it—this is all because of James and in his honor.”
“I want the world to be kind to James,” he added at last. “I want people to treat him with kindness and respect.”
For more, stay connected with dailynewszone.com.
