Gary and Jordan Ablett share sweet photos of ill son Levi on 7th birthday – after revealing his heartbreaking medical diagnosis for the first time

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Gary Ablett Jr and his wife Jordan have celebrated their son Levi’s 7th birthday in style. 

This week, the 33-year-old wife of an Australian Rules Football player and the 41-year-old footballer posted adorable photos of their baby, along with a heartfelt message.

‘Happy 7th (!!!) birthday to our beautiful and handsome Levi,’ the caption read. 

‘What a blessing you are to so many and definitely to this family. We love you little man!’

The photo slideshow featured Levi having fun with his family and getting lots of loving hugs from his happy parents.

Last year, the couple publicly shared for the first time that their son is battling a rare disease that gets worse over time.

Jordan kept Levi’s illness private while she came to terms with the difficult news, but she recently shared in VWeekend magazine that Levi is now prepared to discuss his condition publicly.

Levi was diagnosed with Menkes disease, a rare genetic condition that prevents his body from processing copper properly. This can cause brain damage, affect his tissues, and unfortunately, often leads to a shortened lifespan.

Jordan described the diagnosis he received from doctors in May 2020 as shocking and difficult to come to terms with. He also explained that his current medication will only help to slow down the disease’s progress.

She added that even though life is good, difficult days will inevitably happen. When they do, it’s crucial not to let negative feelings control your day or ruin the positive things you have.

I always felt I’d eventually share this openly and honestly… I don’t see any benefit in keeping it hidden.

Menkes disease is a genetic condition inherited on the X chromosome. It’s caused by changes in the ATP7A gene, which affects how the body processes copper, according to The Menkes Foundation.

This condition is noticeable through specific symptoms, such as thin, white hair and issues with connective tissues.

The condition can also cause serious nervous system problems, including seizures, weak muscle tone, poor growth, and delays in how the brain develops.

Mortality is high in untreated Menkes disease, with many patients dying before the age of three. 

While there isn’t a cure for this condition yet, early treatment with a copper medication called parenteral copper histidinate (CuHis) can help people live longer and reduce neurological problems.

In her memoir, One Day At A Time, published last year, Jordan shared the difficulties and rewards of parenting a child with a disability.

She said the book means a great deal to her and her family, who have shared all of life’s ups and downs together, experiencing every challenge and happy moment along the way.

Writing this book was an emotional journey, filled with both joy and sadness. But being able to share my experiences and, hopefully, inspire others has made it all worthwhile.

My hope is that sharing my experiences will help parents of children with disabilities feel less isolated and more empowered. I want them to see their child for who they truly are – a wonderful gift.

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2026-01-15 11:53