Married At First Sight star Mel Schilling shared first bowel cancer symptom she noticed

Married At First Sight's Mel Schilling made a heartbreaking announcement on Thursday (12 March), explaining that the cancer she had been diagnosed with in 2023 has metastasised to her brain.

In a post on Instagram, Mel explained that her light was 'starting to fade' after oncologists told her that there was nothing more they could do.

She wrote: "Unfortunately, in late February 2024 during a routine scan, small nodules were discovered in my lungs. The cancer had metastasised and my world changed again in an instant. Over the past two years, while filming MAFS, I underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy and was later told I was eligible for a groundbreaking clinical trial specific to my gene type, due to start in March 2026. Once again, my optimism soared that I might beat this thing.

"Over Christmas, however, I began experiencing blinding headaches and numbness down my right side. After many tests I was told the cancer had spread to the left side of my brain and, despite subsequent radiotherapy sessions, my oncology team have now told me there is nothing further they can do."

Over the last few years, Mel has been open about her battle with bowel cancer, and opened up about the initial symptoms she experienced prior to her diagnosis..

Speaking to Occtopus – Oxford Colon Cancer Trust, Mel explained that she first became concerned after losing her appetite, which resulted in weight loss.

She also struggled with cramps and constipation and was unable to hold down food or water down.

However, she never noticed any blood in her poo. After visiting her GP to explain the symptoms she was experiencing, Mel was referred for a CT scan which revealed a tumour the size of a lemon.

Mel explained that she is currently relying on her family to look after her, adding on social media: "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.

"At the outset of this journey, so many of you sent the most wonderful messages of support. They have meant more than I can ever properly express and have helped shape the mindset I’ve needed to keep fighting.

"Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

"If I could leave you with one thing, it would simply be this: if something doesn’t feel right, please get it checked out. It might just save your life."