Mel Schilling has announced that her cancer has spread.
The Married At First Sight star was initially diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023.
In the years since, Mel has continued working on Married At First Sight as a dating coach. However, she has now announced that she has stepped away from the show, and that her cancer has become terminal.
On Thursday, the 54-year-old took to Instagram to post a heartbreaking photo of her hugging her husband Gareth and daughter Maddie.
“In December 2023 I was diagnosed with colon cancer after a tumour the size of a lemon was discovered during a scan. ‘Terry,’ as I called him, was successfully removed and I was initially given the all clear — that much many of you already know,” Mel began in her caption.
“Unfortunately, in late February 2024 during a routine scan, small nodules were discovered in my lungs. The cancer had metastasised and my world changed again in an instant.
“So that’s where I am now. My light is starting to fade — and quickly. But I am still here, still fighting, and surrounded by the most incredible love. 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 and will be surrounded by the love and support of my people,” she wrote.
“At the outset of this journey, so many of you sent the most wonderful messages of support. They have meant more than I can ever properly express and have helped shape the mindset I’ve needed to keep fighting. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
“If I could leave you with one thing, it would simply be this: if something doesn’t feel right, please get it checked out. It might just save your life. These two beside me are my everything. With love and gratitude, Mel,” she concluded.
Following her devastating update, many of Mel’s fellow TV stars have since been commenting their support.
“Sending so much love… thinking of you and the family ♥️,” responded Holly Willoughby.
“Sending you love Mel I’m so sorry keep you in my prayers,” commented Oti Mabuse.
“Hey xxxxx sending you love and light ,” added Davina McCall.
The team behind Married At First Sight also took to Instagram to share a message of support for Mel.
In a statement, they wrote: “The entire Nine family is deeply saddened by the news regarding Mel Schilling’s health. She is a woman of extraordinary depth, kindness, and an unshakeable spirit.
“Mel’s honesty and her ability to face life’s hardest moments with such strength and openness is something we admire. She isn’t just a colleague; she is family.
“Our thoughts, love, and strength are with Mel, her husband Gareth, and her daughter Maddie during this incredibly difficult time. Mel, we are all behind you,” they added.
