Teddi Mellencamp, a former star of 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,' is returning to her lifelong passion - competitive horseback riding - after facing severe health challenges that led to an emergency brain surgery.
- Mar 15, 2025
AceShowbiz - A month after undergoing emergency surgery to remove multiple brain tumors, Teddi Mellencamp is back in the saddle. the 43-year-old reality star and daughter of singer John Mellencamp recently participated in her first horse derby.
Teddi was elated to share that she placed sixth overall in the competition, riding her friend Tiffany Kraft Sinay's horse. "@tiffkraftsinay you are so kind to let me ride your baby in my first derby back," she wrote in a video shared on her Instagram Stories. "6th place. Starting to feel like myself again."
In mid-February, Teddi was diagnosed with multiple tumors in her brain following severe headaches that had persisted for six months. She also faces additional treatments, including immunotherapy and radiation, to handle the remaining tumors, which are metastases of her melanoma.
The return to competitive horseback riding has played a pivotal role in her mental health during this challenging time. "When you are sick or have cancer, your mental health is very important. I must keep going and give myself joy and goals," Mellencamp shared. "I am going to always fight to be my best and find ways to smile and enjoy my life. Thanks for coming along this journey with me."
Teddi has been transparent about her health struggles, regularly updating her followers on Instagram. "Update from my scans today: I have multiple tumors in my brain that weren't able to be removed via surgery. I also have 2 tumors in my lungs. The doctors are hopeful that immunotherapy will effectively treat them," she noted.
Despite these adversities, Teddi maintains a positive outlook. "I am feeling positive - that I will win this battle, that I got this wig (I like the short hair, just not the bald spots), and that I can remember all of Angelina's kids' names."
Her emotional resilience and determination have been supported by her community and loved ones, including her estranged husband Edwin Arroyave and her father, John Mellencamp. "Cried with happiness that I have your support," she stated, referring to her father's encouragement.
To her haters and naysayers, Teddi has a clear message, "Now, as @bravoandy would say: with all due… f*** off, cancer!"
Teddi Mellencamp's story is a poignant reminder that while life may throw seemingly insurmountable challenges our way, passion and positivity can serve as powerful catalysts for overcoming them.
