‘It was shocking … hard to first accept’: Jordan Ablett reveals son Levi’s medical condition

Jordan Ablett has been praised by her close friend and fellow WAG Emma Hawkins for her “bravery and vulnerability” in opening up about her son Levi’s diagnosis of Menkes disease.

Jordan Ablett has been praised for her “bravery and vulnerability” in opening up for the first time about her son Levi’s health condition.

Jordan and husband, footy legend Gary Ablett Jnr, on Tuesday revealed to the Herald Sun that Levi, 6, suffers from a rare form of Menkes disease.

Jordan has detailed the journey with Levi, his siblings Grace and Ezra, and other parts of their life including the loss of her beloved mum Trudy, in her new book One Day at a Time.

Family pictures for the memoir were taken at the farm of former Geelong star Tom Hawkins and wife Emma.

Gary and Jordan Ablett with their son Levi. Picture: Daniel Milligan

Jordan and Gary Ablett with Levi at the footy. Picture: Supplied

“Jordan has shown so much bravery and vulnerability in sharing their journey through navigating Levi’s rare condition, while navigating her mum’s illness and passing while raising three children and supporting Gary’s football journey and community work,’’ Emma said.

“She has truly taught me and leads by example to embrace the beauty in every moment — and is truly inspiring. Jordan and Gary are remarkable humans and parents, and Levi brings so much joy to all of our lives.

“Her words will undoubtedly help others feel less alone, offering comfort and strength in their own journeys. I’m incredibly proud of her for shining her light and sharing her story. Her mum would be incredibly proud.”

Jordan said Levi, diagnosed in May 2020, was their “gift”.

Tom and Emma Hawkins.

Emma has described Jordan as brave and inspirational.

Children with Menkes struggle to absorb and transport copper, an essential mineral that our bodies use in many ways, greatly affecting their global development. The serious disorder also leads to a short life expectancy.

Stylist Lana Wilkinson, who worked with Jordan at six Brownlow Medals, said she is an incredible mother.

“She’s really one of a kind and so is Gary,’’ Wilkinson said.

“They are the kindest and nicest and most generous couple. I’m excited for her to have this outlet and they want to be able to help other people. They give out so much positivity and they’re genuine people.

“The first time I dressed her was in 2013 and it was an honour to work with them. They were always generous, afterwards when she brought back the dress she’d bring flowers and chocolates. She was so young then and what an example she is for others.”

Jordan said she held onto the diagnosis until now simply because she wasn’t ready yet to share it publicly.

Jordan Ablett with little Levi. Picture: Supplied

Gary Ablett Jnr with Levi at the 2022 Grand Final between the Cats and Sydney Swans. Picture: Getty

On Tuesday Jordan revealed it had been “shocking” and “hard to first accept’’ when Levi’s diagnosis had been relayed to them in May 2020.

When asked whether the treatment Levi was on had been effective, Jordan said: “It’s not a cure, it’s merely a way of slowing the progression.”

“I know we are blessed and I know that when those hard days come, and they do, it’s so important to not give into the emotions that follow and let them dictate your day and take away from the gift that it is,” she said.

Gary Ablett enjoys precious time with Levi in Queensland. Picture: Instagram

Jordan Ablett with Levi. Picture: Supplied

“I didn’t want people to misinterpret me holding onto that information (of Levi’s diagnosis) as being ashamed of Levi. It was purely a matter of me just trying and needing to process it all first myself. I knew that once I could do that, I’d be in a position where I could then offer encouragement and hope to others through our journey.”

Read the full exclusive interview with Jordan Ablett in VWeekend on Saturday.