Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson has shared a heartwarming milestone for her 11-month-old daughter Story, who has spoken her first word despite a rare diagnosis. The singer posted a video on Instagram showing Story saying “Muma” while looking up at her from under a blanket. “Story said Muma for the first time my life is complete,” she captioned the clip.
In January, Nelson revealed that her twin daughters, Ocean and Story, had been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 (SMA1), a genetic condition causing progressive muscle weakness. She said doctors warned the girls may never walk and required urgent treatment. “If they didn't have it they would die,” she said at the time, expressing gratitude that the twins received treatment.
Since the diagnosis, Nelson has campaigned for NHS newborn screening for SMA1, arguing that earlier detection could improve outcomes. In March, she shared that both daughters needed splints for their feet, calling it “another reminder” of their condition. Earlier this month, her car containing vital medical equipment was stolen from her driveway.
Nelson welcomed Ocean and Story with former fiancé Zion Foster in May 2024 after a difficult pregnancy. The couple have since separated. There is currently no cure for SMA, but treatments are available to improve quality of life. One in 40 people carry the faulty gene that causes the condition.
