Married at First Sight Australia's expert Mel Schilling has shared an update on her colon cancer, revealing it has spread to her brain.
The 54-year-old psychologist on the hit reality TV show said she was diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023, when a tumour "the size of a lemon was discovered during a scan".
She said the tumour was successfully removed, but in February 2024 small nodules were discovered on her lungs.
"The cancer had metastasised and my world changed again in an instant.
Schilling said "over the past two years, while filming MAFS, I underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy and was later told I was eligible for a ground-breaking clinical trial specific to my gene type, due to start in March 2026".
In an post on social media this morning, she confirmed that, after many tests, she had been 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," she wrote.
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. Simple tasks have become incredibly difficult and I am relying on my beautiful family to look after me. 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 thanked family, friends and fans of the show for their "wonderful messages of support".
The two other experts on the show, psychologist John Aiken and sexologist Alessandra Rampolla shared their love for their colleague.
"Dearest Mel. This news is simply devastating. All of me is standing with you. Whenever you need me - please know I’m there. All of my thoughts and prayers are with you and your amazing family. I’m hugging you now and I’m not letting go," Aitkin wrote.
"My Mel, beautiful chica. My heart breaks reading this, but I am endlessly grateful for every moment we’ve shared. You are SO deeply loved, my friend!! Holding you and your beautiful family close to my heart. Always," Rampolla said.
Former cast members from the show were also quick to share supportive messages, including crowd-favourite Lucinda Light from season 11.
"You are so loved. So admired. Your courage, your grace, your extraordinary heart — they shine so brightly and they touch all of us," the 43-year-old wrote.
Schilling has been an expert on MAFS Australia since 2016, and in 2021 joined the revamped UK series alongside Paul C Brunson and Charlene Douglas.
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