Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson "cannot believe" that her twins have turned one: "What a milestone to reach."
The singer, 34, announced earlier this year that her twins Ocean Jade and Story Monroe Nelson were diagnosed SMA1 (spinal muscular atrophy), a genetic condition which causes progressive muscle wastage.
On Friday, Nelson posted a heartfelt video featuring the poem “Welcome To Holland” by Emily Perl Kingsley, which addresses the experience of raising a child with a disability. In an accompanying caption, she described her twins as the "strongest most resilient little fighters I’ve ever known".
She wrote: "I cannot believe it has been a whole year since having my beautiful baby girls. They have been through so much. There will never be enough words to describe just how incredible they actually are. My tiny little super humans. The strongest, most resilient little fighters I’ve ever known.
“You inspire me and every single person that ever meets you both. One whole year old today what a mile stone to reach. I read this poem a little while ago by Emily Perl Kingsley ‘welcome to Holland’ and I think this sums up their journey so beautifully. Happy Birthday my Ocean and Story you are my whole heart and soul I love you more than you will ever know."
SMA1 is a genetic condition leading to progressive muscle wastage, with the NHS detailing symptoms such as muscle weakness, movement and breathing difficulties, swallowing issues, muscle tremors, and bone and joint problems. Nelson revealed in January that her daughters’ diagnosis meant they are unlikely to be able to walk or regain neck strength. The singer has since become a vocal advocate for adding SMA to the newborn blood spot screening test, emphasising that early treatment can significantly mitigate some of its most severe effects.
Her campaigning efforts have included a meeting with Wes Streeting, the former Health Secretary, in January to discuss the transformative impact of early detection, followed by a visit to 10 Downing Street in April. She also became a patron of the charity SMA UK in February.
Nelson rose to prominence as a member of Little Mix, winning The X Factor in 2011 alongside Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Jade Thirlwall, and Perrie Edwards. She departed the group in 2020, after they achieved five number one singles, including 'Wings' and 'Shout Out To My Ex', and a number one album in the UK charts.
