Teddi Mellencamp Reflects on Cancer Journey One Year After Brain Surgery

Teddi Mellencamp recently took to social media to commemorate a year since her emergency brain surgery. The former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star posted a photograph from her hospital stay, showcasing electrodes on her head prior to a brain scan.

Upon disclosing her diagnosis in February 2025, Mellencamp, 44, made the significant decision to shave her head in anticipation of surgery to remove part of a tumor.

She shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “One year ago today, I went to the ER thinking I had a migraine, and within 24 hours, I was scheduled for surgery for a stage 4 tumor the size of a plum in my brain. I have a lot of anxiety today, but I also have a lot of gratitude.”

Mellencamp expressed her appreciation for the healthcare professionals who assisted her, her family and friends for their support, and all the love she received from her followers. She emphasized the importance of trusting one’s instincts and encouraged her audience to get regular health check-ups.

Teddi first revealed a stage 2 melanoma diagnosis in March 2022, and later in April 2025, she disclosed that her skin cancer had progressed to stage 4, spreading to her brain and lungs. Although she underwent brain surgery to remove a tumor, doctors discovered additional tumors during the procedure.

Later scans showed that at least one tumor had reduced in size. One challenging aspect of her treatment was struggling with clear speech, which she discussed during her appearance on “The Masked Singer.” She mentioned how that experience significantly boosted her spirits and health. “I was really, really sick before this,” she recalled, noting improvements in her movement since participating in the show.

Reflecting further, she admitted, “I forgot how much I was shaking while singing. Watching it made me realize that recovery often shifts focus to negatives instead of positives.” She added that even her handwriting had been impacted by the treatment, but she now appreciates the progress she’s made. “Whether it happens on my timetable or not, it’s definitely happening.”

Mellencamp also shared her gratitude for her podcast, “Two T’s in the Pod,” which she co-hosts with Tamra Judge. She observed that the journey has given her a platform to discuss and educate others about health issues. “It’s been a tough few years, but it’s rewarding when people reach out saying they got tested because of me. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this experience,” she concluded, encouraging others to be proactive about their health.