Former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson has shared devastating personal news, revealing that her twin baby girls have been diagnosed with a severe and rare genetic muscle disease.
A Mother's Heartbreaking Announcement
In an emotional video posted to her Instagram on January 4, 2026, Nelson fought back tears as she explained that her daughters have Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1. The condition causes progressive muscle weakness and affects crucial functions like swallowing and movement.
The singer, who welcomed her premature twins in 2025, described the last few months as "the most heartbreaking time" of her life. She detailed a difficult journey where initial concerns about the babies' development were repeatedly dismissed by healthcare professionals.
The Long Road to Diagnosis
Nelson explained that her mother first noticed the twins were not showing typical leg movement several months ago. "From the minute I left NICU I was told 'Your babies are premature so don't compare your babies to other babies,'" she recalled, which initially stopped her from raising the alarm.
Further signs emerged when the girls struggled to feed properly. Visits to their GP yielded assurances that all was well, with advice to try feeding "little and often." However, after what Nelson called "the most gruelling three to four months, and endless appointments," the serious diagnosis was finally confirmed.
A Race Against Time for Treatment
The prognosis for SMA Type 1 is severe. "If it's not treated in time, your babies' life expectancy will not make it past the age of two," Nelson stated. The disease progressively destroys muscles throughout the body.
Specialists at London's Great Ormond Street Hospital delivered the stark assessment that the twins would never walk and would likely never regain neck strength. "They will be disabled," Nelson recounted being told. "The best thing we can do right now is to get them treatment and hope for the best."
Thankfully, the twins have now received urgent treatment. "Once the girls got treated it was a very rapid process. Time is of the essence with this disease," Nelson emphasised, adding she is "so grateful" for the intervention that has saved their lives.
Life Transformed Overnight
The diagnosis has radically changed Nelson's world. "The hospital has become my second home," she shared. "I feel like I've had to become a nurse within two weeks of getting the diagnosis. I've had to do stuff no mother should have to do on their child."
Her decision to share the news publicly was driven by the traumatic experience of the past three months. The candid video has sparked an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities, raising awareness for the rare genetic condition.
