Jesy Nelson and fiancé Zion Foster split after twins’ SMA diagnosis, remain united as co-parents

Jesy Nelson and her fiancé Zion Foster have ended their relationship following the shock diagnosis of their twin daughters with a rare genetic condition, but the former couple remain united as co-parents.

The former Little Mix star and musician Foster, had been together for four years and became engaged in September. Nelson was recently seen without her engagement ring, prompting confirmation that the pair have decided to separate. A source told The Sun, “She and Zion remain friends and are fully focused on their daughters. They are fully united in co-parenting. Their priority continues to be the well-being of their daughters.”

Their twins, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, have been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1, the most severe form of the condition, which affects muscle strength, movement, breathing and swallowing. The couple were told it is unlikely the girls will ever walk and that they may face significant long-term challenges.

Nelson and Foster announced they were expecting identical twins in January 2025. The pregnancy was later classed as high-risk after the babies were diagnosed with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, leading to in-utero surgery and months of close medical supervision before the girls were born prematurely in May.

The twins are now under the care of Great Ormond Street Hospital and have received treatment, including a one-off NHS-approved gene therapy infusion. Nelson has since spoken openly about the importance of early intervention, noting that untreated SMA Type 1 can significantly shorten life expectancy.

Since the diagnosis, Nelson has been campaigning to raise awareness of SMA and is calling for the condition to be added to the NHS newborn heel-prick screening test. Despite their separation, Fostr continues to support Nelson and their daughters, with both parents committed to facing the challenges ahead together.