Meet William Trump, 25, a wheelchair user, and his father, Fred Trump III
Fred C. Trump III, a nephew of Donald Trump, has centered his advocacy on improving disability awareness, inspired by his son William’s life. His memoir, “All in the Family,” intertwines his family’s story with the realities of raising a child with profound disabilities.
William’s early life was defined by a medical mystery, suffering hundreds of daily seizures. After a 15-year search, doctors diagnosed a rare KCNQ2 genetic mutation, which causes severe developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Despite these challenges, William finds joy in swimming, music, and time with family. Now a young adult, he is nonverbal and uses a wheelchair. He resides in a specialized Connecticut group home, ensuring constant care while remaining near his family.
Fred has transformed this personal experience into a public mission. He aims to reshape perceptions, stressing that individuals with significant disabilities lead meaningful lives deserving of respect and support.
He leverages his platform to advocate for key policy changes. His goals include better training and pay for caregivers, expanded sustainable housing options, and earlier medical intervention for disabilities.
Fred highlights the importance of technology, like William’s communication device, and the crucial need for professional training to use it effectively. He argues for stronger government support to make these tools accessible.
Acknowledging his family’s privilege in securing private therapies, Fred is driven to make similar support available to all families. He and his wife, Lisa, are now dedicated full-time to advocacy, helping others navigate developmental disabilities.
