Jesy Nelson, the former Little Mix star, has released a documentary detailing her campaign for newborn screening for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) following the diagnosis of her twin daughters. The 34-year-old singer is calling for all UK babies to be tested for SMA at birth via a heel prick test, which currently screens for 10 other conditions.
In the documentary, which will air on Prime Video later this year, Nelson is seen meeting with then-Health Secretary Wes Streeting and appearing on This Morning to push for change. She has partnered with the Mirror to gather 100,000 signatures on a petition supporting the legislation, which is set to be debated in Parliament on June 22. Nelson said: 'I just pray that on the 22nd of June when it goes to Parliament that it changes.'
Nelson's twins, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe Nelson-Foster, were diagnosed with SMA Type 1, a rare condition causing muscle wastage. The documentary shows the emotional moment she learned of their diagnosis, with Nelson saying: 'I really thought my heartache was over. I can’t believe this is happening.' Her former partner, Zion Foster, also features, discussing their split, which Nelson attributed to the strain of the diagnosis.
The film highlights the twins' ongoing treatment, including the use of special chairs and feeding tubes, as they work toward the possibility of walking. Reflecting on her journey, Nelson said: 'In the beginning I felt like I was going to feel that sadness and that heartache for the rest of my life. But the pain does get less.'
