Jesy Nelson, the former Little Mix star, has garnered a wave of support from friends and her ex-partner, Chris Hughes, following the heartbreaking announcement regarding her twin daughters’ diagnosis of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). The singer revealed the news on January 4, 2026, explaining that after enduring “the most gruelling three or four months,” her daughters, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, were diagnosed with this severe genetic condition.
In her emotional video, the 34-year-old artist described how SMA leads to progressive muscle weakness and affects vital functions, including breathing and swallowing. “Essentially what it does over time is it kills the muscles in the body,” she stated tearfully. This diagnosis not only impacts mobility but can also significantly shorten life expectancy, with untreated infants often unable to survive past the age of two.
Chris Hughes responded quickly to her post, offering words of encouragement: “A warrior Jess. Be easy on yourself. Sending prayers to you all, everyone behind you guys.” Nelson and Hughes, who previously dated from late 2018 until their split in April 2020, have maintained a supportive relationship through this challenging time.
Numerous other celebrities expressed their solidarity as well. Jess Wright sent her love, while Ashley James and Fran Parman also offered heartfelt messages. Singer Sam Bailey remarked, “You are so strong for sharing this,” highlighting the courage in Nelson’s decision to speak publicly about her daughters’ condition.
Understanding Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a genetic disorder that impacts motor neurons in the spinal cord, leading to significant physical limitations. There are four primary types of SMA, categorized by the age of onset and motor milestones achieved. Type I, which affects infants, is the most severe. Nelson revealed that her daughters were diagnosed with SMA Type I after struggling with feeding and movement, concerns initially dismissed as typical delays due to their premature birth.
The twins were born on May 15, 2025, at just 31 weeks after Nelson faced complications during her pregnancy, including twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. After their birth, Ocean and Story spent time in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Nelson explained that it was her mother who first noticed the twins were not moving as much as expected, prompting further medical evaluations.
Describing the tumultuous journey of securing a diagnosis, Nelson stated, “After the most gruelling three, four months and endless appointments, the girls have now been diagnosed with a severe muscular disease – SMA Type 1.” She emphasized the urgency of treatment, noting that “once the girls got treated, it was a very rapid process because time is of the essence with this disease.”
The Path Forward
Currently, Ocean and Story are receiving treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. Nelson expressed her gratitude for the care they are receiving, stating, “I am so grateful for because without it they will die.” Despite the challenges, she remains hopeful. “I truly believe my girls will defy all the odds with the right help,” she said.
In her video, she aimed to raise awareness about SMA and the importance of early diagnosis. She highlighted signs for parents to watch for, such as floppiness in babies and rapid breathing. Nelson also stressed the significance of the heel prick test at birth, which can facilitate early intervention and potentially save lives.
Reflecting on her experience as a mother navigating this difficult terrain, Nelson shared the emotional toll it has taken. “The last few months have been the most heartbreaking time of my life. I literally feel like my whole life has done a 360. I almost feel like I am grieving a life I thought I was going to have with my children.”
As she continues to advocate for her daughters, Jesy Nelson’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by families dealing with serious genetic conditions. Her openness not only sheds light on the realities of SMA but also highlights the importance of community support during difficult times.
