Sometimes, life throws everything at you at once—and you still find the strength to show up.
That’s exactly what reality star and podcast host Teddi Mellencamp is doing. After being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, she’s been incredibly open with her followers, sharing the highs and lows of living with a disease that has changed everything.
From Skin Cancer to Stage 4: How It All Started
Teddi was first diagnosed with melanoma in 2022.
But earlier this year, things took a serious turn when doctors discovered multiple tumors on her brain and lungs.
She underwent brain surgery and began intensive treatment, including immunotherapy.
Despite the whirlwind, she hasn’t shied away from sharing her journey.
In fact, she recently attended a cancer benefit looking radiant in a black suit and silver heels—with no wig, letting her surgery scars show.
It was a bold move that spoke volumes about her resilience.
Choosing to Wear a Wig Is More Than Just Style
Teddi gave her followers a real look into how she’s coping emotionally.
Some days, she wears a wig.
Other days, she doesn’t.
“The crying days, I tend to wear the wig,” she wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post, alongside a selfie.
“The ups and downs of this treatment are intense.”
She urged everyone to get their annual health checks—especially during Melanoma Awareness Month.
A Night Out, a Fresh Perspective
At the Women’s Cancer Research Fund’s annual gala, Teddi walked the red carpet alongside her close friend Kyle Richards.
It was her first big night out since being released from the hospital.
She told reporters, “I feel good. Yes, it’s devastating, but things do get better.”
Teddi also had some exciting news—her tumors have shrunk significantly thanks to immunotherapy.
She’s got one more session left before her next check-up on June 1, and for the first time in a long time, things are looking hopeful.
Responding to the Critics: Why She’s Back on Her Horse
Not everyone supported her choice to get back to horseback riding while undergoing treatment.
But Teddi was clear: “I asked my doctor. He told me to do what I love.”
She explained that she listens to her body daily.
If she feels up for it, she rides. If not, she rests. “Doing what I love is healing in its own way,” she said.
“And honestly, it feels amazing to say that.”
Her Children Are Her Rock
Through it all, Teddi says her children have been her biggest support system.
Slate (12), Cruz (10), and Dove (5) have shown nothing but love, laughter, and strength.
“Whether it’s a good day or a tough one, we try to find small special moments,” she said.
“Laughter has really helped get us through.”
A Reminder to Stay Vigilant
Teddi’s story is not just about her battle.
She’s using her platform to encourage others to be proactive about their health.
“I was walking around with tumors for possibly a year without realizing it,” she admitted.
Migraines, fatigue, and other symptoms made her think she was going through menopause.
Instead, it turned out to be cancer. Her message? Don’t wait. Get checked. Encourage your loved ones to get checked too.
A Glimmer of Hope
Last week, Teddi shared a video online announcing a huge milestone: her tumors have shrunk.
Her doctors are optimistic that the treatment is working—and that she may be cancer-free soon.
“Just two more sessions and hopefully, I’m done,” she said with a hopeful smile.
Preparing for the Unknown
Despite the good news, Teddi is also facing the reality of what lies ahead.
A source close to her confirmed she’s drafted a will to make sure her children are cared for, just in case.
“She’s realistic about what could happen,” the insider shared.
“But right now, she’s focused on fighting and living fully.”
Putting Life First
Teddi has even put her divorce on hold as she navigates her health crisis.
What matters most right now is healing, being with her kids, and embracing every single moment.
And through it all, she’s remained an incredible example of strength, honesty, and grace.
Her journey is painful, raw, and deeply human—but it’s also a reminder of how powerful it can be to live openly, even in the hardest of times.