Jesy Nelson reveals emotional journey of her twin daughters’ SMA battle

'If you came to my house, it looks like a hospital,' the former Little Mix member said

Photo: Instagram @jesynelson

Jesy Nelson became emotional while opening up about the serious health challenges facing her young twin daughters, sharing a deeply personal and heartbreaking update about life behind the scenes as a mother.

The former Little Mix star revealed that her daughters, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, have been diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and can severely affect mobility and breathing. Doctors have told Nelson that the girls will likely never walk and will face lifelong medical challenges.

Fighting back tears, Nelson spoke about how the diagnosis has completely altered her role as a parent. “That’s the part that really gets me — I just want to be their mum, not a nurse,” she said.

She explained that medical care has become a constant part of daily life, with one of her daughters requiring a breathing machine at night and both needing assistance with feeding. “I have to put feeding tubes down their nose and use machines to help them breathe,” Nelson shared. “It’s so much when you’re trying to deal with this horrendous thing that’s just happened.”

Nelson described how her home now feels more like a medical facility than a family space. “My whole life has just completely changed,” she said. “If you came to my house, it looks like a hospital.”

Despite the emotional weight of the situation, Nelson emphasized her determination to stay strong for her children. She spoke about their resilience, noting that they continue to smile and remain happy despite everything they are facing. “All I can do is just try my best to be there for them and give them positive energy,” she said.

The singer also used her platform to advocate for improved newborn screening, explaining that earlier diagnosis of conditions like SMA could be life-changing for families. She reflected on noticing early signs before understanding what they meant, adding to her resolve to raise awareness.

Nelson’s candid account has resonated with many parents and fans, shedding light on the realities of caring for children with rare illnesses while highlighting the strength, vulnerability, and love that define her journey as a mother.

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