Moment Jordan Ablett realised something ‘wasn’t right’ with son

Jordan Ablett has opened up about the moment she realised something “wasn’t right” with son Levi, in the hopes it may help other parents.

Jordan Ablett has opened up about the moment she realised something “wasn’t right” with son Levi. Picture: Supplied

Jordan Ablett has opened up about the moment she realised something “wasn’t right” with son Levi.

Ablett and husband, Geelong champion Gary, revealed in 2020 that Levi had been diagnosed with a rare degenerative illness.

Jordan said it was in March that year just after his first birthday while doing a photo-shoot that she knew something was off.

“These photos were taken back in March of 2020. Levi was a few months past his first birthday and while on set it became clear as day that something wasn’t right,’’ she wrote on social media.

“I remember the photographer asking me if Levi could stand/sit and I said no and as we continued taking photos I was thinking ‘this isn’t right’. When I attempted to get him into a standing position he wouldn’t put any weight through his legs at all, he was super floppy in all positions, had really poor head control and for the most part (if not the entire time) kept his hands clenched tight.”

The Abletts, who welcomed a daughter Grace in November, have revealed Levi, 3, has a short life expectancy with the diagnosis.

She also revealed to the Herald Sun in April that he doesn’t speak and it’s highly unlikely he will ever talk.

Jordan urged parents to seek help if they have the slightest doubt about their child.

“I still cherish all my photos with my boy, but I must say there is a tinge of sadness when I look at some because I don’t understand how things went under the radar for so long,’’ Jordan wrote.

The Ablett received overwhelming support after speaking out about Levi’s diagnosis. Picture: Instagram

Gary Ablett with Levi.

“Not having had a child before Levi I couldn’t compare and didn’t know what’s typical of a baby and what’s not. If you have the slightest doubt about your child’s development, whether merely a thought or an unrelenting gut-feeling like we did, I encourage you to voice your concerns with a professional and persist if your concerns remain.

“If there happens to be a problem then you’re the parent who knew and put baby first because you love them and want them to be well. If there is no problem then you’re the parent who was unsure and put baby first because you love them and want them to be well. No harm can come from asking questions and seeking professional support. Felt like I needed to share this!”

Levi turned three in January with Jordan, who was an ambassador for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal this year, also posting pictures at the weekend of him smiling and playing with puppies at Guide Dogs Australia.