Community Chat

[Jordan2]

I at times had an opinion of him that wasn't favorable. You never know what goes on in someone's life, Colin is very private. I just read he is starting a Foundation in honor of his son James who will be 21 in September. James has Angelman Syndrome (he is non verbal). The Foundation will offer support for adult children who have intellectual disability through advocacy, education, and innovative programs. Unfortunately when these young adults turn 21 they are no longer entitled to the various programs they had. I think what Colin is doing is very commendable. 

[Desertdi]

[SportyShorty07]

Colin Farrell is such a great guy! Thank you for sharing this story with us, Jordan2 ! There's a great People magazine youtube video that's an interview with Colin about his son James- its called "Colin Farrell opens up about his son with Angelman Syndrome". Colin is a very talented actor and he is a very loving dad to his two sons. He's very handsome, intelligent, and empathetic .

[lgfan]

This is an overview of Angelman Syndrome:

 

Overview

Angelman syndrome is a condition caused by a change in a gene, called a genetic change. Angelman syndrome causes delayed development, problems with speech and balance, mental disability, and, sometimes, seizures.

Many people with Angelman syndrome smile and laugh often. They tend to be happy and easy to excite.

Delays in maturing, called developmental delays, begin between about 6 and 12 months of age. The delays often are the first signs of Angelman syndrome. Seizures may begin between the ages of 2 and 3 years old.

People with Angelman syndrome tend to live close to a typical life span. But the condition can't be cured. Treatment focuses on managing medical, sleep and developmental issues.

Symptoms

Angelman syndrome symptoms include:

• Developmental delays, including no crawling or babbling at 6 to 12 months.
• Mental disability, also called intellectual disability.
• No speech or little speech.
• Trouble walking, moving or balancing.
• Smiling and laughing often and seeming happy.
• Being easy to excite.
• Trouble sucking or feeding.
• Trouble going to sleep and staying asleep.

People who have Angelman syndrome also may have:

• Seizures, often beginning between 2 and 3 years of age.
• Stiff or jerky movements.
• Small head size by age 2.
• Tongue thrusting.
• Hair, skin and eyes that are light in color.
• Odd behaviors, such as hand flapping and arms uplifted while walking.
• Crossed eyes, also caused strabismus.
• Curved spine, also called scoliosis.

[Poohbear52]

It’s great what Colin is doing. My daughter has cp and considered extremely impaired. She just turned 26 this past June and completing this year. Her ceremony is August 14th and we will be balling our eyes out. We live in Michigan and fortunately the age is 26 to go to school.

[mspatmac]

One never knows what is going on in someone's life or what they are dealing with.  Refraining from snark or criticizing others for their opinion is not a good idea. Same with telling others to stop watching if they are venting. Every comment does not need a response!

[Terrywu]

@Jordan2 Reading your post has changed my thoughts of Colin Farrell.  I never really thought much of his acting and thought he seemed aloof..  I am so thankful you wrote this.  One really doesn't know what is present in other people's lives.  Thanks again.

[SharkE]

All I know about him is he is Irish Catholic. Seen few of his movies

[CANDLEQUEEN]

My theory is Be Kind, you never know what the person next to you is going through!!!!

[Greeneyedlady21]

I've always known that about his son. Sure he has had his struggles, but I think he has that Irish tender heart underneath it all. And I'm sure he has matured from his younger days.