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Colin Farrell Launches Foundation to Support Adults With Intellectual Disabilities

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Colin Farrell has established the Colin Farrell Foundation to aid adult children with special needs.
- The foundation aims to assist individuals like Farrell's son, James, who has Angelman syndrome.
- James, 20, who is nonverbal, was diagnoses with Angelman syndrome aged two-and-a-half. The condition is caused by genetic mutation, leading to delayed mental development.
- The 'In Bruges' actor opened up about his son in an emotional interview with People magazine, saying that James turns 21 in September, a significant milestone for those with special needs.
- Individuals with special needs often face a lack of support once they reach adulthood, Farrell said.
- "Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own," he told People. "All the safeguards that are put in place – special ed classes – that all goes away. So, you’re left with a young adult who should be an integrated part of our modern society and more often than not is left behind."
- Through the foundation, Farrell hopes to provide support in various aspects of life for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

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Kate Winslet has defied industry pressure to hide her natural physique during the filming of 'Lee', proudly embracing body positivity and authenticity.
- During the filming of a bathing suit scene, a crew member suggested that the Oscar winner "sit up straighter" to conceal her "belly rolls," to which she defiantly responded, "Not on your life!"
- At 48, Winslet chose to forego intense workouts before filming to embrace a more natural physique fitting for her character, the iconic war journalist Lee Miller.
- "I think people know better than to say, 'You might wanna do something about those wrinkles,'" Winslet told Harper’s Bazaar U.K. in a recent interview. "I’m more comfortable in myself as each year passes. It enables me to allow the opinions of others to evaporate."
- Winslet has been vocal about her struggles with body image since her school days, where she faced bullying for her weight, fueling her resolve to challenge societal beauty norms.
- In the past, Winslet criticized a magazine for digitally altering her image to make her appear slimmer, sparking discussions about the media's influence on women's body image.
- Winslet's upcoming film, 'Lee', is set to hit British and Irish cinemas on September 13.

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Francine Pascal, the creator of the beloved 'Sweet Valley High' book series, passed away at the age of 92 in Manhattan due to lymphoma on Sunday.
- Pascal, born in Manhattan on May 13, 1932, gained immense success with the young adult series, starting in 1983.
- Her iconic series focused on the lives of twins Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield in the fictional town of Sweet Valley, captivating readers worldwide.
- Pascal's works transcended the young-adult genre, selling over 150 million copies in 27 languages and inspiring multiple spin-offs.
- She carefully crafted character bibles and outlined stories, paving the way for a rapid publication pace of nearly a book every month.
- Pascal's influence extended beyond literature, shaping speech patterns, clothing trends, and even television shows and movies.
- Her dedication to storytelling resonated with readers, fostering a love for reading in a generation of young girls.

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Army veteran, Col. Edward Thomas Ryan, came out as gay in his own obituary, revealing a lifetime secret.
- Ryan was a retired colonel, firefighter, and entrepreneur from New York who lived a life of service and sacrifice.
- In his heartfelt obituary, Ryan shared that he was in a loving 25-year relationship with Paul Cavagnaro.
- Despite receiving honors for his service, Ryan feared being ostracized by family, friends, and co-workers for his sexual orientation.
- The obituary highlighted the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the military and society, especially during Ryan's time.
- Ryan's decision to come out posthumously resonated widely, touching the hearts of many who admired his courage and authenticity.
- After battling intestinal cancer, Ryan donated his body to medical research at Albany Medical College, with plans for cremation and burial next to Cavagnaro.
- Ryan's nephew, Joseph Ryan, shared that his uncle's final message was a long time coming and holds special significance during Pride Month.
- In the wake of his obituary, numerous messages of support and admiration poured in, honoring Ryan's life of service and his posthumous revelation.

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