Jesy Nelson from Little Mix has ended her engagement to Zion Foster after four years, following the diagnosis of their twin daughters with SMA Type 1.
The 34-year-old singer welcomed Ocean Jade and Story Monroe Nelson-Foster last May, whom she shares with the musician.
Recently, Nelson used Instagram to share that the twins had been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a ‘severe muscular disease’, after enduring ‘the most gruelling three, four months, and endless appointments’.
According to the NHS, SMA is a ‘rare genetic condition’ that progressively worsens over time, but ‘medicines and other treatments’ can help manage symptoms. These symptoms include muscle weakness, movement difficulties, and issues with breathing or swallowing.
The singer described this period as ‘the most heartbreaking time of [her] life’ and revealed she and Foster have decided to end their romantic relationship after being together for four years.
In an interview with The Daily Mail, Nelson talked about the ‘traumatic experience’ they faced and how their daughters being their ‘main priority’ led to the decision to part ways.
Nelson mentioned that the ‘energy’ between them ‘wasn’t right’ anymore.
She noted that while this was ‘understandable,’ they decided to separate to provide their daughters with ‘the most positive, happy and uplifting time and energy’.
“We are still friends, and we are still united in co-parenting our daughters, they are our main focus, that’s all we can do, be the best possible parents we can right now,” she stated.
The news of their split comes shortly after Foster promoted Nelson’s upcoming six-part docuseries titled Jesy Nelson: Life After Little Mix.
On January 22, Foster posted a trailer for the docuseries on Instagram, writing: “When @jesynelson and I started this project we couldn’t see the road ahead, but to see how it all played out and having it filmed simply feels like God’s plan. The show is raw, authentic and honest.”
He added: “As a new family, we were under immense pressure and stress. A lot of traumatic moments, but nonetheless, we made it here today. I believe this is only the beginning of our journey.
“Praying for clarity, peace and growth so we can continue to navigate the challenges we face; and give Ocean and Story the best support system possible. God’s in control.”
The docuseries is scheduled to be released on February 13.