Teddi Mellencamp, best known from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, is navigating a deeply personal double challenge: a stage 4 melanoma diagnosis and a recent separation from her husband of nearly 13 years, Edwin Arroyave. With remarkable openness, she’s sharing her experiences in hopes of raising awareness—and helping others feel less alone.
Skin Checks Saved Her Life
Mellencamp’s cancer journey began in October 2022, when her dermatologist spotted an unusual mole on her back during a routine check. It turned out to be melanoma—one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer. Over the next year, she underwent 20 surgeries to remove 17 cancerous lesions, emphasizing how aggressive and fast-moving this disease can be.
Her story highlights a critical lesson: regular skin checks can literally save lives. “Had I not gone in when I did,” she told People, “things would be very different.”
Stage 4 and Still Fighting
Despite aggressive treatment, her cancer progressed. By early 2025, Mellencamp started experiencing debilitating headaches, which led doctors to discover multiple brain tumors. A subsequent scan also revealed that the melanoma had spread to her lungs—pushing her diagnosis to stage 4.
Since then, she’s undergone brain surgery, radiation, and is now on immunotherapy. “I’m doing everything I can to stay strong, but some days are really hard,” she shared on her podcast. Even so, she hasn’t slowed down, continuing to compete in equestrian events and raise awareness through social media and public interviews.
Divorce and Mental Health Struggles
Amid the ongoing medical treatments, Mellencamp confirmed earlier this month that she and Edwin Arroyave are separating. In a joint statement, the couple said they are committed to co-parenting their three children, but Mellencamp has acknowledged the emotional weight of going through a divorce while fighting for her life.
“This season of my life is filled with grief in different forms,” she shared in a podcast episode. “I’m trying to let myself feel it all, but it’s not easy.” Her vulnerability about mental health—particularly how cancer and life changes intersect—is striking a chord with many fans. She’s spoken about moments of panic, feeling overwhelmed, and the importance of having a support system that includes therapy and close family.
Resilience, Advocacy, and What’s Next
Despite everything, Mellencamp remains focused on living with intention. Her recent scans show positive signs—some tumors have shrunk or disappeared—and she’s continuing with immunotherapy. She credits her father, singer John Mellencamp, and her children for helping her stay grounded.
She’s also become a vocal advocate for early detection, encouraging others not to put off skin checks. “If sharing my story helps even one person catch melanoma early, then it’s worth it,” she said.
Mellencamp’s story is one of grit and grace. She reminds us that even in our hardest seasons, it’s possible to keep moving forward—and to shine a light for others.
