Gary Ablett Jr and Wife Jordan Share Son Levi’s Heartbreaking Terminal Diagnosis

This title maintains the key elements: the subjects (Gary Ablett Jr and Jordan), the action (sharing/disclosing), the son’s name (Levi), the gravity of the diagnosis (terminal), and the emotional weight (heartbreaking). It succinctly conveys the first-time disclosure without explicitly stating "for the first time," as the verb "share" implies a new revelation. The phrasing balances clarity, sensitivity, and conciseness.

Gary Ablett Jr. and Wife Jordan Reveal Son Levi’s Battle with Rare Menkes Disease

AFL star Gary Ablett Jr., 40, and his wife Jordan, 33, have shared their six-year-old son Levi’s heartbreaking diagnosis with Menkes disease, a rare genetic disorder. After keeping his condition private for years, Jordan opened up in an interview with VWeekend, explaining they’re now ready to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges.

Understanding Menkes Disease
Menkes is a rare, X-linked disorder caused by mutations in the ATP7A gene, disrupting copper metabolism. This leads to severe neurodegeneration, connective tissue issues, and a drastically shortened lifespan. Symptoms include sparse hair, developmental delays, seizures, and failure to thrive. Most children with Menkes don’t survive past age three, though early treatment with copper injections can slow progression. Levi, diagnosed in May 2020, has surpassed expectations, turning six in January.

Gary and Jordan Ablett with their son Levi, who has defied odds by reaching age six despite Menkes’ typical prognosis.

A Family’s Journey
Jordan described the diagnosis as “shocking” and emotionally crushing. “It’s hard to accept,” she admitted, emphasizing that Levi’s medication only delays the disease’s progression. Despite the pain, she focuses on gratitude: “On hard days, it’s vital not to let emotions overshadow the gift of life.” The couple has leaned on faith and resilience, with Jordan adding, “I knew I’d eventually share our story—there’s no good in hiding it.”

Celebrating Milestones
In January, the family marked Levi’s sixth birthday, with Jordan posting heartfelt photos on Instagram: “Happy Birthday, sweet boy—thanks for six years of constant sunshine!” The milestone highlighted their journey’s bittersweet reality, balancing joy with the knowledge of Levi’s uncertain future.

Jordan’s memoir, One Day At a Time, aims to support families navigating childhood disabilities.

Sharing Hope Through Memoir
Jordan’s upcoming book, One Day At a Time, chronicles her family’s struggles and triumphs. She hopes it empowers other parents: “I want them to see their child as a treasure, not just a diagnosis.” Writing the memoir brought “both happy and sad tears,” she shared, but she believes transparency can foster community and strength.

The Power of Awareness
By speaking out, the Abletts aim to spotlight Menkes disease and the need for research. While there’s no cure, early intervention can extend lives. Their story underscores the importance of cherishing each moment and advocating for those with rare conditions.

Levi’s sixth birthday symbolized hope and resilience for the Ablett family.

As Gary and Jordan navigate parenting a terminally ill child, their courage offers a poignant reminder of love’s enduring power—even in the face of unimaginable challenges.