What is Angelman Syndrome? Colin Farrell issues update on son with the rare condition
Actor Colin Farrell has shared an update on his 20-year-old son James, who suffers from a rare neurological condition. What is Angelman Syndrome?
Award-winning actor Colin Farrell has provided an update on his 20-year-old son James, who was born with Angelman Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that has left him unable to speak. He shares his son with his former partner, model Kim Bordenave.
Speaking to People magazine, Farrell said since his child will soon turn 21, there will less safeguards available to him, and it would be hard for him to become an integrated part of society.
To provide support for James and those like him, the actor is setting up the Colin Farrell Foundation to help people with intellectual disabilities, as well as their families.
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What is Angelman Syndrome?
Angelman Syndrome is a condition characterized by severe developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, speech impairments, and problems with movement and balance.
According to the Angelman Syndrome Foundation, the condition shares symptoms and characteristics with other disorders including autism, cerebral palsy and Prader-Willi syndrome. Because of these similarities, there are often instances of misdiagnosis.
Angelman Syndrome is usually caused by a deletion or mutation of the UBE3A gene in chromosome 15, derived from the mother. Diagnosis is confirmed through genetic testing, which can identify deletions, mutations, or other abnormalities in the UBE3A gene.
Developmental delays are often noticeable by 6-12 months of age. Milestones such as sitting, crawling, and walking may be significantly delayed.
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Features of Angelman Syndrome
Speech development is often very limited. Most people with the syndrome use few words or none at all, although they may be more skilled at understanding what other people say.
Another indicator of the condition is problems with movement and balance. This can include lack of coordination, tremors, and difficulties walking.
Those with the disorder often have a happy, excitable demeanor, and are often seen smiling and laughing.
Although there is no cure for Angelman Syndrome, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. People with the condition require lifelong care and support, but early intervention and ongoing therapy can help them have a normal life expectancy.