Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson has shared the heartbreaking news that her newborn twin daughters have been diagnosed with a severe and rare genetic condition.
What is Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1?
Jesy Nelson's twins, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe Nelson-Foster, have been diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1). This is a progressive neuromuscular disorder that severely affects muscle strength and movement. The condition means the children may never walk and could struggle to hold their heads up or regain neck strength.
The 34-year-old singer and her 27-year-old musician fiancé, Zion Foster, welcomed their daughters in May following a difficult pregnancy. The diagnosis came after Jesy's mother first noticed the infants were not moving as much as expected. The twins also experienced significant difficulty with feeding, which prompted Jesy to seek urgent medical answers.
Critical early warning signs of SMA
Medical experts emphasise that recognising the early symptoms can be life-changing, as new treatments are most effective when started promptly. Parents are urged to be aware of the following potential red flags in infants:
- Pronounced floppiness or poor muscle tone
- Difficulty holding up the head
- Weak or noticeably reduced movement
- Shallow breathing patterns
- Trouble with feeding or swallowing
- An unusually weak cry
A transformed outlook with early intervention
While there is currently no cure for spinal muscular atrophy, the landscape of treatment has changed dramatically in recent years. New therapies have transformed outcomes for some children with SMA, particularly when intervention begins as early as possible. These treatments aim to slow the progression of the disease and help individuals achieve the best possible quality of life.
Jesy has been told the devastating prognosis that her daughters may never walk. The family is now focused on accessing the available treatments and support systems. Their story highlights the importance of parental vigilance and the critical need for rapid medical assessment when developmental concerns arise.
The condition is caused by a missing or faulty gene, leading to the loss of nerve cells in the spinal cord that control muscle movement. SMA Type 1 is the most severe form, typically appearing before six months of age. The public revelation from the pop star is expected to raise significant awareness about this rare genetic disease and its early signs.
