Colin Farrell is an acclaimed Irish actor who has been in the game since the early 2000s. Apart from being a two-time Golden Globe winner, he is a devoted father to two boys. His eldest, James, was born in 2003 to his ex-partner Kim Bordenave and arrived when he was filming in Morocco.
However, Farrell was so excited despite his absence at James’ birth. He ensured that his family was there to welcome the baby boy. Sadly, when James turned four, Farrell revealed that he had been diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome, a rare neuro-genetic disorder.
Colin Farrell Revealed Son Is Diagnosed With Angelman Syndrome
Angelman Syndrome is a neuro-genetic disorder characterized by developmental delays, excessive laughter, seizures, and speech impairments. Often, it is misdiagnosed as cerebral palsy and autism. Regardless of James’ condition, Farrell never saw him as one defined by his disability. But the truth is, sometimes he is reminded about his uniqueness when he sees him with his agemates.
Celebrating every milestone, Farrell revealed that James took his first step at four. He described the moment as an emotional one, as there wasn’t even a dry eye in the house.
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Colin Farrell’s Parenting of a Special Child
Notably, before Colin Farrell became a father to a special child, he was already touched by the strength of individuals with special needs. His involvement in promoting the Special Olympics left a lasting effect on him. However, discovering his son’s diagnosis became a shocking coincidence.
Despite James’s challenges, Farrell finds inspiration in seeing him defy the odds. Moreover, he credits his mother for always ensuring James gets the needed support.
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Colin Farrell Advice Parents at the Angelman Syndrome Research Summit
Understanding the difficulties of raising a unique child, Farrell thought to empower parents at the Angelman Syndrome research summit and gala in Chicago hosted by FAST. At the event, he noted how the struggles of a child with special needs can be so severe. However, he quickly mentioned that the love, strength, and heroism observed are what mends all tears.
Farrell also emphasized the importance of finding a supportive community for parents going through the complexities of raising a special child. He noted that these communities have priceless connections that make others relate to the highs and lows of their journey. Notably, since the beginning of his fatherhood journey, Farrell has been committed to being a present and engaged father. This determination led him to a crucial moment in 2005 when he got into rehab to confront his alcohol and drug addiction. Thanks to James, who made this decision possible.
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Colin Farrell’s Two Sons Connect Over Disney Movies
Now a father of two, Farrell welcomed his second son, Henry, with his girlfriend, Alicja Bachleda, in 2009. He was excited about fatherhood once again. He even humorously remarked that he was prepared for all aspects of parenting, “even changing dirty diapers.” However, Farrell disclosed that bringing his sons together has its challenges, as they have different mothers. He noted that despite the situation, his two sons have this harmony growing between them. According to Farrell, his sons are a “funny duo.”
As their connection grows, they realize they’re in it together for a long time. Moreover, the duo also started agreeing on similar Disney movies. Farrell introduced them to timeless classics like “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Lady and the Tramp.” The sweetest part was when he witnessed a beautiful moment as Henry and James found common ground in their cinematic choices. However, when “Cinderella” came on the screen, their unanimous “no” filled Farrell with pride, showing James’s newfound love for movies and his growth.
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