What is Angelman syndrome as Colin Farrell launches charity in honour of son with rare condition

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Actor Colin Farrell is setting up a foundation dedicated to assisting adults with special needs and their loved ones.This charitable endeavour, inspired by his own son who was born with Angelman syndrome, aims to back families with advocacy, education and creative programmes.

The Irish star, 48, has previously expressed his desires for his 20-year-old son James to be treated with more "kindness and respect" by the world.Angelman syndrome is a rare genetic condition that impacts the nervous system, according to the NHS, resulting in both physical and learning disabilities.

A person with the condition will have a near-normal life expectancy, but they will need on-going lifelong support.Farrell shares James, who will turn 21 in September, with his ex, Canadian model Kim Bordenave.The actor has praised his beloved son who he says "has worked so hard all his life" at learning "repetition and balance', and improving his jerky gait".He added: "When he started feeding himself for the first time, his face looks like a Jackson Pollock by the end of it.

But he gets it in, he feeds himself beautifully. I’m proud of him every day, because I just think he’s magic. This is the first time I’ve spoken about it and, obviously, the only reason I’m speaking is I can’t ask James if wants to do this."I mean, I can.