Jesy Nelson has received an outpouring of support from friends and ex-partner Chris Hughes following the revelation of her twin daughters’ serious health condition. On January 4, 2026, the former Little Mix member disclosed that her daughters, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, have been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) after several difficult months of uncertainty.
In an emotional video shared on social media, the 34-year-old singer described the past three to four months as “gruelling.” She explained that this genetic neuromuscular disease causes progressive muscle weakness and affects various bodily functions, including movement, breathing, and swallowing. Jesy stated that the condition “kills the muscles in the body” over time, leading to severe limitations in mobility and independence.
Support from Friends and Family
Chris Hughes, who dated Jesy from late 2018 until their split in April 2020, offered heartfelt encouragement under her post, saying, “A warrior Jess. Be easy on yourself. Sending prayers to you all, everyone behind you guys.” Other celebrities, including reality star Jess Wright and singer Sam Bailey, also expressed their support, sending love and strength to Josy and her family during this challenging time.
The diagnosis has come after Jesy and her partner, Zion, initially noticed that the twins were not reaching expected developmental milestones. Jesy revealed that it was her mother who first observed that the babies were not moving as much as anticipated. Following numerous appointments and consultations, the diagnosis of SMA Type 1 was confirmed.
Jesy shared her fears about the implications of the diagnosis, stating that if not treated promptly, the girls’ life expectancy could be severely impacted. She disclosed that doctors at Great Ormond Street Hospital have informed her that the twins are unlikely to walk or regain neck strength, emphasizing the urgency for treatment. Jesy stated, “Once the girls got treated, it was a very rapid process because time is of the essence with this disease.”
Understanding Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a genetic condition that is the leading cause of death in infants due to its impact on motor nerve cells in the spinal cord. It is classified into four types based on the age of onset and the physical milestones achieved. Type 1, the most severe form, typically manifests shortly after birth and is characterized by weakness and difficulty with basic functions such as breathing and swallowing.
Jesy described the relentless hospital visits and the emotional toll it has taken on her family, stating, “I feel like the hospital has become my second home.” She has had to learn complex care procedures, including the use of breathing machines, which she admits no mother should have to do. Despite the challenges, Jesy maintains hope for her daughters, proclaiming, “I truly believe my girls will defy all the odds with the right help.”
In her heartfelt message, Jesy also aimed to raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis for SMA and the signs parents should be aware of, such as decreased movement in infants. She highlighted the critical role of newborn screenings, such as the heel prick test, which can help identify SMA early and potentially save lives.
Jesy and Zion welcomed their daughters on May 15, 2025, after a complicated pregnancy that included a stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The couple’s journey through parenthood has been marked by both joy and hardship, with Jesy recently reflecting on the overwhelming experience of being in NICU and the emotional challenges of supporting her premature twins.
As Jesy navigates this difficult journey, the support from her friends, family, and fans continues to shine a light during a challenging time. The singer’s openness about her struggles serves as a reminder of the resilience many families face in the wake of health challenges.
