Colin Farrell has made an emotional appeal to the public, urging them to treat his 20-year-old son, James, “with kindness” as he navigates life with a rare neurogenetic disorder. The “In Bruges” actor shares James with his former partner, Kim Bordenave. The couple welcomed their son in 2003.
Understanding Angelman Syndrome
James suffers from Angelman syndrome, a complex neurological condition that can cause a range of symptoms including movement disorders, difficulty swallowing, slow brain wave patterns, small flat head, epilepsy, low muscle tone, and breathing problems.
The Colin Farrell Foundation
At 48, Farrell has opened up about James’s condition for the first time in a new interview, announcing the creation of the Colin Farrell Foundation. This organization aims to support adults with intellectual disabilities and their families. Speaking to People Magazine, Farrell said, “I want the world to be kind to James. I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect. I’m proud of him every day because I just think he’s magic.”
Challenges After Turning 21
Farrell explained the critical need for his foundation: “Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own. All the safeguards that are put in place, special ed classes, that all goes away, so you’re left with a young adult who should be an integrated part of our modern society and more often than not is left behind.”
Early Signs and Diagnosis
Colin revealed that as a baby, James wasn’t hitting typical developmental milestones. He couldn’t sit up, crawl, or walk, leading to a misdiagnosis of cerebral palsy at age one. It wasn’t until he was two years old that a doctor suggested testing for Angelman syndrome.
James’s Achievements and Struggles
The “Banshees of Inisherin” star teared up recalling the “overwhelmingly beautiful” moment when James took his first steps just before his fourth birthday—a significant milestone since many with Angelman syndrome are unable to walk. “He works harder than I’ve ever had to work on myself,” Farrell said, highlighting James’s struggles with simple tasks like taking off his clothes and socks. “All these things are huge, huge achievements.”
Farrell shared how James’s condition has changed his outlook on life: “If anything, he also gifts me with the ability to look at the human being, the human body, and life as a marvel. I see how much he struggles with things I would never have given a second’s thought to. That many of us take for granted.”
Farrell added that his children, including his son Henry with actress Alicja Bachleda-Curuś, are his greatest joys and what he is most grateful for.
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Developmental delays, often the first signs of Angelman syndrome, typically begin between 6 and 12 months of age. Many diagnosed with the condition tend to laugh a lot and are easily excitable. While Angelman syndrome cannot be cured, individuals often live close to a typical lifespan, with treatment focusing on managing medical, sleep, and developmental issues.
Though this is the first time Farrell has spoken in depth about his son’s health, he and Kim Bordenave filed for conservatorship of James in 2021. This legal move allows them to manage his personal needs and medical decisions. They requested the court grant them the authority to make decisions about his education, control his social and sexual relationships, access confidential records, and grant or refuse permission for medical procedures.
Conclusion
Colin Farrell’s heartfelt plea for kindness and respect towards his son James highlights the ongoing challenges faced by families of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Through his new foundation, Farrell hopes to ensure that adults like James receive the support they need to be integrated and valued members of society.