Former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson has shared a heartfelt update on the health of her twin daughters, revealing a devastating diagnosis and her new mission to raise awareness.
A Mother's Fight for Her Daughters
In an emotional video posted on Sunday, 4 January 2026, Nelson told fans that her twin girls, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe Nelson-Foster, have been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1. The babies were born prematurely in May 2025.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a rare genetic condition that progressively weakens muscles by affecting the nerve cells in the spinal cord. It can impact movement, breathing, and swallowing. Nelson explained that without timely treatment, life expectancy for those with the severe Type 1 form is often not beyond two years.
"I am now acting as a nurse to my daughters," she said, describing the reality of putting them on breathing machines and performing care "that no mother should have to do with their child."
The Road to Diagnosis and a Call for Change
Jesy and her fiancé, musician Zion Foster, first became concerned when they noticed the twins were not moving their legs as expected and struggled to feed. Despite repeated visits to their GP and health visitors who initially insisted everything was fine, a diagnosis finally came after three to four months of gruelling appointments.
Thankfully, the twins have now received critical treatment. "If they didn't have it they would die," Nelson stated. However, doctors have warned that the girls may never walk or regain full neck strength.
Determined to help other families, Nelson announced she is starting a petition to get SMA added to the UK's newborn screening programme. "I just need you to know that I am so determined to make this happen," she told her followers. The screening is currently under review.
Gratitude and a Public Campaign
Overwhelmed by the public support, Nelson sincerely thanked her fans and the wider SMA community for their messages. She confirmed she will appear on ITV's This Morning on Wednesday, 7 January, to discuss the family's experience further.
Ending her update, the singer admitted, "It's a long way to go," acknowledging the challenging journey ahead for her daughters. Her story highlights the critical importance of early diagnosis for rare conditions like Spinal Muscular Atrophy and a parent's fierce advocacy for their children's health.
