Zion Foster, the ex-fiancé of Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson, has broken his silence on their split and denied walking away from their twin daughters, who were diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). In an Instagram statement, Foster addressed the 'painful' comments and clarified his earlier admission of being 'out of my depth' regarding the diagnosis.
Foster Vows Commitment to Daughters Amid SMA Diagnosis
Foster had previously said he felt overwhelmed after learning that their twins, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, had SMA, a rare progressive muscle weakness condition. However, he now insists he never intended to abandon his children. 'When I said I was ‘out of my depth’ I wasn’t saying I was walking away from my children or abandoning my responsibilities as a father,' he wrote on Instagram ahead of the release of Nelson's documentary, Jesy Nelson: Life Changing.
Foster Explains His Words Were Misunderstood
'I was talking about the overwhelming reality of suddenly facing a rare and complex medical diagnosis that I knew nothing about. I was being honest. I didn't have the knowledge. I didn't have the experience. I was scared. I was trying to process emotions that no parent ever hopes to face,' Foster said. He added that being 'out of his depth' meant he was learning and trying to understand, not that he didn't love his daughters.
Split Was Nelson's Decision, Says Foster
Foster also revealed that the end of their relationship was Nelson's choice. 'Although I respect that, it does not change the fact that I remain committed to my daughters in every way I possibly can,' he said. He stated he attends all their medical appointments, educates himself on SMA, and seeks ways to support his children. 'Being their father is the greatest responsibility and privilege of my life.'
Foster Asks Public Not to Mistake Vulnerability for Abandonment
Foster acknowledged the heartbreaking nature of the journey for all involved. 'Nobody prepares you for news like this, and we’re all navigating it in our own way,' he said, adding that he feels 'pain alongside Jesy' and wants the best for his daughters. He implored viewers not to misinterpret his words: 'Please don't mistake vulnerability for abandonment. Asking for help or admitting you don't have all the answers doesn't make someone a bad father. It makes them human.'
Twins Diagnosed With SMA After Premature Birth
The twins were born prematurely in May 2025. Months later, Nelson noticed they were not moving as expected, leading to their SMA diagnosis. According to the NHS, SMA causes muscle weakness, breathing and swallowing issues, muscle tremors, and bone and joint problems. Without early detection and treatment, it can severely limit a child's ability to walk.
Nelson Campaigns for Newborn Screening Changes
Nelson has been campaigning for SMA to be added to the blood spot screening all newborns receive, to ensure early detection and prevent severe effects. Her Prime Video documentary, set for release on 17 July, follows her fight to change UK newborn screening laws. Described as 'raw and powerful,' it shows how she copes with the diagnosis, adapts to daily challenges, and finds her footing as a single mother after the breakup.
