Meet William Trump, 25, a wheelchair user, and his father, Fred Trump III
William Trump’s life has become the driving force behind his father Fred C. Trump III’s dedication to disability awareness and advocacy. After years of private struggle, Fred chose to share his family’s experience publicly, hoping their story could help other families facing similar challenges and change how society views profound disabilities.
Fred, a nephew of former U.S. President Donald Trump, returned to the public eye with his memoir All in the Family: The Trumps and How We Got This Way. The book weaves together family history with the deeply personal reality of raising William, whose life has been shaped by a rare genetic condition.
William’s birth brought unexpected challenges. Fred and his wife Lisa had two healthy children, so nothing prepared them for the medical emergencies that followed. William experienced hundreds of seizures daily, leaving his parents searching desperately for answers.
After years of tests and uncertainty, doctors identified a rare KCNQ2 genetic mutation. This diagnosis explained William’s severe developmental and intellectual disabilities, finally giving the family clarity after a long and painful journey.
Despite his condition, William enjoyed many simple pleasures. He loved swimming, ice cream, peanut butter sandwiches, music, and spending time with his siblings. His joy and personality always shone through his medical limitations.
Now a young adult, William is nonverbal and uses a wheelchair. He lives in a specialized group home in Connecticut, where he receives constant care while remaining close to his family.
Inspired by his son, Fred uses his platform to advocate for better caregiver support, accessible housing, and early medical intervention. He believes people with disabilities live meaningful lives and deserve respect, protection, and equal opportunities.