Colin Farrell has recently shared the heartfelt reasons behind his decision to place his 21-year-old son, James, who has Angelman syndrome, into long-term care. This rare neurogenetic disorder affects speech, balance, and motor skills, and often leads to developmental delays and seizures. Farrell and James’ mother, Kim Bordenave, are proactively seeking a facility where James can thrive, emphasizing the importance of finding a place they trust while they are still able to be involved in his life.Newsweek+9People.com+9Fox News+9
Farrell expressed concerns about unforeseen circumstances that could leave James without proper care. He stated, “My horror would be, what if I have a heart attack tomorrow, and, God forbid, James’ mother, Kim, has a car crash and she’s taken too – and then James is on his own? Then he’s a ward of the state and he goes where? … .” People.com
James was initially misdiagnosed with cerebral palsy before being correctly diagnosed with Angelman syndrome at around two and a half years old. Farrell recalled the challenges and milestones in James’ development, including his first steps just before his fourth birthday, describing the moment as profoundly moving. Entertainment Tonight+5People.com+5People.com+5The Independent+2Fox News+2People.com+2
Recognizing the lack of support for adults with intellectual disabilities, especially after they age out of childhood services at 21, Farrell established the Colin Farrell Foundation. The foundation aims to provide advocacy, education, and innovative programs to support individuals like James. Farrell emphasized the need for society to treat individuals with kindness and respect, stating, “I want the world to be kind to James. I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect.” NBC Boston+5People.com+5Newsweek+5E! Online+5Newsweek+5The Independent+5E! Online+4Entertainment Tonight+4The Independent+4
Farrell’s decision is deeply rooted in love and foresight, ensuring that James has a supportive environment where he can lead a fulfilling life. By sharing his family’s journey, Farrell hopes to raise awareness and inspire better support systems for individuals with special needs
