TV
'I don't know how long I have': 'MAFS' Mel Schilling's devastating health update


Published by Sophie van Soest
13 Mar 2026
'Married At First Sight Australia' relationship expert Mel Schilling has shared a heartbreaking update with fans, revealing doctors have told her there is "nothing more they can do" after her cancer spread to her brain.
Mel was first diagnosed with Colon Cancer in late 2023 after a tumour “the size of a lemon” was discovered during a scan.
In a heartfelt message shared with supporters, Mel explained the tumour - which she nicknamed Terry - was removed, and she was initially given the all clear.
But just a few months later, during a routine scan in early 2024, doctors discovered small nodules in her lungs.
“The cancer had metastasised, and my world changed again in an instant,” she wrote in the Instagram post.
Despite her health battle, Mel kept working and continued filming 'Married At First Sight Australia' while undergoing treatment and completing a whopping 16 rounds of chemotherapy.
She was also hopeful about joining a clinical trial that would have started this month, designed for her specific gene type.
“Once again, my optimism soared that I might beat this thing,” she said.
Unfortunately, things took a turn over Christmas 2025 when Mel began experiencing blinding headaches and numbness down one side of her body.
After more testing, doctors discovered the cancer had spread to the left side of her brain.
Despite undergoing radiotherapy, her oncology team has now told her there is no further treatment they can do.
“Hearing those words changes everything,” she wrote.
“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.”
Mel shared that everyday tasks have become "incredibly difficult" and that she’s now relying on her family for support.
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 also thanked the many fans who have supported her since the beginning of her cancer journey, saying it's helped her "shape the mindset needed to keep fighting.”
Mel ended her message with a reminder for others to listen to their bodies and seek medical advice if something feels off.
“If something doesn’t feel right, please get it checked out,” she wrote. “It might just save your life.”
Mel has stepped away from her expert role on 'MAFS AU' to focus on her health and family.
Former 'MAFS' bride, Lucinda Light, has responded to speculation she could step into Mel's role, saying she's "deeply touched" people would even suggest it.
Lucinda said Mel leaves “very big shoes to fill” and shared her love for the relationship expert, but explained she’s currently tied up with filming in London, focusing on learning and growing and SINGLE, lol.
While she won't be taking it on, Lucinda added she has no doubt the show’s team will find “someone fabulous” to follow Mel's footsteps.

Published by Sophie van Soest
13 Mar 2026