Former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson and her fiancé, Zion Foster, have reportedly ended their relationship, mere weeks after publicly revealing their twin daughters' devastating medical diagnosis.
The Heartbreaking Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Jesy Nelson, 34, and Zion Foster, 27, welcomed their twin girls, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe Nelson-Foster, prematurely in May 2025. The birth followed a difficult pregnancy and an emergency procedure. The challenges continued for the newborns, who were later diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1, a severe genetic condition.
SMA progressively destroys the muscles needed for movement. The type affecting the twins is particularly severe; without treatment, life expectancy can be as short as two years. The parents were told at London's Great Ormond Street Hospital that their daughters would likely never walk or regain full neck strength.
Earlier in January 2026, Jesy bravely shared the news on Instagram, stating the girls were "two little warriors" and emphasising that treatment, which they have received, was crucial for survival. She spoke openly about grieving the future she had imagined for her children.
Why Extreme Stress Can Fracture Even Strong Bonds
Now, sources confirm the couple have parted ways, just four months after announcing their engagement in September 2025. While they remain committed to co-parenting, the immense strain of their circumstances appears to have driven a wedge between them.
Experts explain that such profound trauma triggers a biological survival response. Chartered Clinical Psychologist Tracy King told The Mirror that under extreme stress, the logical part of the brain recedes. This can lead to emotional withdrawal, reactive communication, and a loss of intimacy, not from a lack of love, but because the nervous system is prioritising protection over connection.
"Communication can break down even in strong relationships," King explained, "because the brain is prioritising survival."
The 'Pressure Cooker' Effect on Relationships
Wendy Dignan, an emotional intelligence speaker, described a serious diagnosis as acting like a "pressure cooker" for a relationship. Partners often cope in divergent ways—one may become hyper-practical while the other is emotionally overwhelmed—creating distance if these differences aren't understood and communicated.
Psychotherapist Susie Masterson highlighted that people under shock often seek "escape hatches," which can include walking away from a relationship, as an attempt to regain a sense of control learned from childhood patterns.
Early warning signs, according to relationship psychotherapist Ioana Rotaru, include emotional disconnection, avoiding difficult conversations, building resentment, and loss of warmth and affection.
Navigating the Storm: Advice for Couples in Crisis
Despite the challenges, experts stress that adversity doesn't have to mean the end. For some couples, facing such trials can ultimately strengthen their bond.
Dr. Joanna Silver, a Consultant Psychologist, advised that there is no "right" way to respond and urged self-compassion. She recommended finding small moments for connection, even when time is scarce.
Ioana Rotaru's advice to couples is to adopt the mindset: "It's you and me against the problem, rather than me against you." She suggests that brief, honest check-ins and gentle affection can help maintain an emotional connection within the new, constrained reality.
Ultimately, the key is to normalise different coping styles, seek professional help if possible, and lean on support networks. The couple's shared focus, as confirmed by a source to The Sun, remains the well-being of their twin daughters, Ocean and Story.
