Mel Schilling, 54, has revealed the heartbreaking news that her cancer has spread to her brain, and doctors have told her there is nothing more they can do. In an emotional Instagram post on Thursday, the Married At First Sight star shared her devastating health update, confirming that her battle with cancer is now terminal.
Mel was first diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023, after a 5cm tumour was discovered. She underwent surgery, and at the time, was told she had successfully beaten it. However, in 2024, Mel’s cancer metastasized, first spreading to her lungs, and over Christmas, it was discovered that it had reached her brain.
In a lengthy caption she penned: ‘My light is starting to fade — and quickly. But I am still here, still fighting, and surrounded by the most incredible love’
Friends and fans rushed to the comments to share their condolences following the sad news
In a heart-wrenching message, Mel wrote: “I honestly don’t know how long I have left, but I do know I will fight to my last breath and will be surrounded by the love and support of my people.”
Throughout the past two years, Mel has fought tirelessly, undergoing 16 rounds of chemotherapy while continuing to film MAFS. She was set to begin a clinical trial this March, but over Christmas, she began experiencing severe headaches and numbness down her right side.
After extensive tests, doctors confirmed that her cancer had spread to the left side of her brain. Despite undergoing radiotherapy, her medical team delivered the crushing news that there is nothing more they can do for her. “My light is starting to fade — and quickly,” she shared in her post.
Mel’s diagnosis is a stark reminder of how quickly things can change. Reflecting on her health journey, she revealed how she initially felt “quite pleased” after accepting that her life could be cut short. Yet, as her health deteriorated, Mel found herself holding on to the hope of beating the disease.
Her message continued: “Simple tasks have become incredibly difficult and I am relying on my beautiful family to look after me. I honestly don’t know how long I have left, but I do know I will fight to my last breath.”
Mel shared a photo with her husband Gareth and their 10-year-old daughter Madison, expressing her deep gratitude for the love and support they’ve shown her. She also urged her followers to take charge of their health, saying: “If something doesn’t feel right, please get it checked out. It might just save your life.”
The Australian TV personality also discussed how her symptoms were initially ignored, especially in the early stages when she experienced significant abdominal pain and constipation. She emphasized how women often dismiss symptoms, especially abdominal pain, attributing it to hormonal issues or cycles. Mel encouraged others to be more proactive when it comes to health checks.
As Mel continues to battle her illness, fans and colleagues have flooded her with messages of love and support. MAFS expert John Aiken shared an emotional tribute, saying, “She isn’t just a colleague; she is family.”
Last month, Mel made the difficult decision to step away from her role on MAFS Australia, citing ongoing health issues and the strain of living between the UK and Australia. She explained that her health challenges had made it impossible to continue in the role, adding that she needed to focus on her family and health.
In her post, Mel concluded with a heartfelt message: “These two beside me are my everything. With love and gratitude, Mel.”
Read the full story at Daily Mail
