Leigh-Anne Pinnock Voices Support for Jesy Nelson in Heartfelt Interview
Leigh-Anne Pinnock has publicly praised her former Little Mix bandmate Jesy Nelson as 'incredible' during a rare and emotional interview, offering support amid Nelson's family crisis. The 34-year-old singer revealed she reached out to Nelson after learning that Nelson's twin daughters, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, were diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 (SMA1), a severe genetic neuromuscular disease.
A Bond That Endures Beyond the Band
Speaking on The Smallzy Show with host Kent Small, Pinnock emphasized the unbreakable connection between the former band members, who have remained close since Nelson's departure from Little Mix in 2020. 'It's heartbreaking, just awful. Obviously I did reach out to her. It's the worst thing ever,' Pinnock stated, her voice filled with empathy. She added, 'I think she's really incredible for spreading that awareness. That's the special thing about us. We will always be there for each other.'
The Devastating Diagnosis and Its Impact
Jesy Nelson welcomed her twin daughters prematurely in May 2025 with her ex-fiancé, Zion Foster. This year, she shared the devastating news that both babies have SMA1, a condition that weakens muscles by affecting motor nerve cells in the spinal cord. Type 1 is the most common and severe form, with a life expectancy of less than two years without medical intervention. The diagnosis has thrust Nelson into a dual role: caring for her critically ill children while advocating for change.
Campaigning for Change and Putting Music on Hold
Nelson is now campaigning vigorously for the NHS to expand the standard heel prick test to include screening for SMA1. She argues that an early diagnosis, facilitated by a test costing around £1, could have preserved her daughters' leg function. Her petition has already garnered over 100,000 signatures, compelling Parliament to consider it for debate. Amid this advocacy, Nelson has put her music career on hold, telling Heart FM's Breakfast show, 'My girls are my main focus. I've not got time for music right now. They are my whole heart and soul.'
The Daily Struggles of Caregiving
In a candid interview with the Daily Mail, Nelson described the emotional toll of caring for her twins, calling some days 'really f***ing s***' and others slightly more manageable. She and Foster never anticipated such intensive medical care, which includes daily procedures that leave Nelson feeling like she's hurting her babies as they cry and scream. 'Every day is so full-on. There are a lot of medical things I have to do which I am still really struggling with,' she confessed, highlighting the profound challenges of balancing motherhood with medical advocacy.
Little Mix's Unwavering Support System
Pinnock reiterated the band's solidarity during an appearance on Heart Breakfast with JK and Kelly Brook, noting that all former members have reached out to Nelson. 'We've all reached out to her, and I think she is really brave for what she is doing. Supporting each other has always been so important to us,' she said, underscoring the sisterly bond forged over years of collaboration. This support network remains a cornerstone for Nelson as she navigates her daughters' health crisis and her campaign for SMA1 screening reform.
