Mel Schilling cancer diagnosis: TV star and dating coach reveals there’s nothing left for doctors to do in sad health update

‘My light is starting to fade — and quickly.’

Reality TV star Mel Schilling has shared a devastating update in her cancer battle, revealing while she doesn’t know how long she has left she will continue to fight for her family.

The Australian dating coach, who featured on reality series Married At First Sight, was first diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023.

Schilling had a tumour the “size of a lemon” removed and was initially given the all-clear, she confirmed on Instagram.

But in the post shared on Friday, the TV personality revealed scans later showed the cancer had spread to her lungs and now her brain, with doctors saying there is nothing more they can do for her.

“Unfortunately, in late February 2024 during a routine scan, small nodules were discovered in my lungs,” Schilling wrote.

“The cancer had metastasised and my world changed again in an instant.

“Over the past two years, while filming MAFS, I underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy and was later told I was eligible for a groundbreaking clinical trial specific to my gene type, due to start in March 2026.

“Once again, my optimism soared that I might beat this thing.”

However, over Christmas last year, Schilling began experiencing blinding headaches and numbness down her right side.

After further testing, she was told the cancer had spread to the left side of her brain.

“Despite subsequent radiotherapy sessions, my oncology team have now told me there is nothing further they can do,” Schilling said.

“Hearing those words changes everything.

“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.”

Schilling said simple tasks have become incredibly difficult and she is leaning on her family to care for her.

Schilling also shared a photo with the two people she describes as her “everything” — her husband of 25 years, Gareth Brisbane, and her daughter, Maddie.

“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,” Schilling said.

“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.”

Celebrities shared their sadness and devastation, with Home And Away actress Georgie Parker leading the comments.

“Mel, I’m devastated to read this. I’m sending all my love and strength darling. And love to your family,” Parker wrote.

“You are small but mighty, with such a huge heart. I have not known you long but you are so loved by so many,” pop star Dannii Minogue shared.

Schilling ended the emotional post by urging people to listen to their bodies and get something checked out if it doesn’t feel right.

“It might just save your life,” Schilling said.