Teddi Mellencamp, a former cast member of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” marked the first anniversary of her emergency brain surgery with a heartfelt Instagram post, blending gratitude for her survival with anxiety over the milestone. Her reflection comes a year after she underwent surgery for stage 4 brain tumors, highlighting her ongoing battle with cancer and personal challenges.
In her social media post on Monday, Mellencamp shared a hospital photo and wrote about her experience, stating that she went to the emergency room thinking she had migraines only to discover plum-sized tumors on her brain, leading to surgery within 24 hours. She expressed deep gratitude for the medical team, her family, friends, and the outpouring of support from fans, while also acknowledging the anxiety that the anniversary brought. The post concluded with a message urging others to trust their instincts and seek medical check-ups, emphasizing the importance of early detection.
Mellencamp’s health struggles began with a stage 2 melanoma diagnosis in October 2022, which has since led to more than a dozen surgeries, including the critical brain operation in February 2025. Despite the physical toll, she has been vocal about her journey, using her platform to raise awareness about cancer and its impacts. In October 2025, she provided a positive update, announcing that her stage 4 cancer was “gone,” though she clarified that she is not yet considered in remission, indicating the complex nature of her recovery.
The reality star’s treatment includes immunotherapy, which her estranged husband, Edwin Arroyave, described as particularly challenging for her mental health. Arroyave, from whom she is divorced after 13 years of marriage, noted that Mellencamp’s “inner battle” has been one of the toughest aspects of her diagnosis. The couple shares three children—daughter Slate, 13, son Cruz, 11, and daughter Dove, 5—and Mellencamp has spoken about the difficulty of being separated from them during her hospital stays.
To cope with the emotional aftermath, Mellencamp has turned to therapy, revealing in her “Two Ts in a Pod” podcast that she didn’t properly process the trauma of her emergency surgery, the time away from her children, and her divorce. She explained that while physically she feels in a good place, her mental state has suffered, leading her to work hard on finding peace, happiness, and her sense of self again.
Recently, on Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea” podcast, Mellencamp elaborated on her mental health journey, stating that the aftermath of cancer treatments is often overlooked. She emphasized the need for ongoing support and self-care, as she continues to navigate the psychological effects of her illness. Her candid discussions have resonated with many, shedding light on the silent struggles faced by cancer survivors beyond the physical symptoms.
Mellencamp’s story has garnered widespread support, with messages from fellow celebrities like Kyle Richards, who praised her strength. Her openness serves as an inspiration, encouraging others to prioritize their health and seek help when needed. As she moves forward, Mellencamp remains focused on healing both body and mind, with therapy playing a key role in her path to recovery.
In conclusion, Teddi Mellencamp’s anniversary reflection not only commemorates a personal milestone but also underscores the broader issues of cancer survivorship, mental health, and the power of resilience. Her journey continues to evolve, with future updates likely to follow as she balances her health, family, and public life.
