Teddi Mellencamp Commemorates Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis Anniversary with Candid Health Update
Former 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' star Teddi Mellencamp Arenas marked a deeply personal milestone on February 9, 2026, posting a reflective Instagram message on the one-year anniversary of her stage 4 cancer diagnosis. The television personality shared a hospital photo from her initial procedure, offering a raw glimpse into her medical journey.
From Migraine Fears to Major Brain Surgery in 24 Hours
In her detailed social media post, Mellencamp Arenas described the terrifyingly rapid progression from concerning symptoms to life-altering surgery. "One year ago today, I visited the emergency room believing I was suffering from migraines," she wrote. "Within just 24 hours, I was undergoing surgery for the plum-sized stage 4 tumors in my brain."
This critical operation in February 2025 addressed melanoma that had first been diagnosed in 2022. By early 2025, the cancer had metastasized, spreading aggressively to her lungs and brain. Surgeons successfully removed several tumors during the procedure, while others were targeted with subsequent radiation and immunotherapy treatments.
Current Health Status: "No Detectable Cancer" but Significant PTSD
By October 2025, Teddi Mellencamp Arenas reached a major medical milestone, reporting "no detectable cancer" throughout her body—a status that has remained stable into 2026. However, her recovery extends beyond physical health.
On her popular Two T's in a Pod podcast, she opened up about the psychological toll. "I've been engaging in a lot of therapy, taking plenty of time to rest, and spending quality moments with my family," she shared. "It’s been a journey to get myself back together because it seems I’m dealing with significant PTSD."
She elaborated on this emotional struggle, noting, "The PTSD stems from everything that transpired. I wasn’t fully aware of it, but I'm starting to feel a bit better now. The heaviness is starting to lift." Despite the challenges, she expressed cautious optimism: "It’s all so surreal. Everything is as good as it can be."
Melanoma Timeline and Ongoing Treatment Journey
Mellencamp Arenas' battle with melanoma began in October 2022 with a stage 2 diagnosis after doctors removed 17 suspicious spots. She underwent her 15th removal procedure in April 2024 and her 16th in September 2024. Severe headaches in February 2025 led to hospitalization, where scans revealed brain tumors that had likely been growing undetected for approximately six months.
In a January 2026 interview with People magazine, she reflected on the ongoing impact of treatment: "I believe that the medications and immunotherapy take a toll on my body, and I also think I haven't fully processed everything that happened during my surgery." Approaching the anniversary, she described feeling "a lot of anxiety" mixed with "a lot of gratitude."
Support from Family and Fellow Celebrities
Her Instagram post garnered heartfelt responses from friends and colleagues. Former co-star Kyle Richards commented, "You are incredibly strong, Ted. Even on days when you don’t feel that way. You inspire so many. Love you!"
Today, Teddi Mellencamp Arenas continues to balance ongoing medical treatments with dedicated family time and a strong focus on her mental health, serving as an advocate for cancer awareness and the importance of holistic recovery.
