When Colin Farrell learned that his son James had Angelman syndrome, his life began to revolve around things that had probably once seemed small. James faced significant difficulties with his development, speech, movement, and balance, so every milestone became a celebration. When he finally took his first steps at the age of four, Colin ended up crying with emotion.
But over the years, another concern emerged. As James approached adulthood, Colin began to wonder what would happen when many of the supports available during childhood were no longer there. He did not want to remain only with that fear: he created the Colin Farrell Foundation to support and advocate for adults with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Perhaps that is why his story is so moving. The man who for years was known for his excesses ended up finding a cause much greater than his own fame. James did not need his father to be a Hollywood star. He needed him to be there. And Colin decided to be there, but also to fight so that other children like his would not be left alone.