Teddi Mellencamp Reveals She Found Another Spot After '11 Melanomas'
By Melanie VanDerveer on May 28, 2023 at 2:00 PM EDT
Teddi Mellencamp has been openly sharing her melanoma story with her Instagram followers in the hopes to bring more awareness to a topic that's not always discussed. The "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" alum recently shared a new update about her journey.
Teddi Mellencamp Shared A New Update In Her Melanoma Journey
In a recent Instagram video, Mellencamp shares that she had a panic attack after finding another spot.
"Yesterday, another spot was found on my back that needs to be biopsied. You'd think after 11 melanomas, I'd be used to this. Unfortunately, you cannot control anxiety. And last night I had the worst panic attack," she wrote in her caption.
"I am trying my best this morning to push through it, but it is not easy. Prayer, meditation, movement - all the usual things I lean on to combat the anxiety - I am hoping they at least can allow me to get through the day."
The podcast host wants people to know if they are suffering from "anxiety, melanoma, or anything else that causes you to spiral" they are not alone, and sharing your feelings about it is "okay."
In the video, Mellencamp goes into more detail about her anxiety about the spot on her back that needs to be biopsied.
"I'm hoping it's going to be good news, but I don't think that I'll find out the answer until Tuesday and the unknowns is where my anxiety really gets away from me," she said.
"Just wanted to tell you guys that we're all in this together if you struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, melanoma, I'm here for you."
She also asked her followers to share the ways they are able to "snap out of a panic attack."
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Many of Mellencamp's followers dropped into the comments to share what has worked for them and to offer support during this tough time.
"Anxiety, panic attacks come when your mind has left it’s body and is thinking about the future or past. You must bring your conscience back to your body in the present moment. Right now nothing is happening, is what I tell myself. This helps me regulate. Also, why worry twice," one person wrote.
Another person added, "Thinking of you!!! Stay focused on the present moment … use all 5 senses to experience the now…..count down from 5 and name 5 things you see 4 things you can touch 3 things you can hear 2 things you can smell and one thing you can hear (or whatever order of senses you prefer. Breathing!!! A thought is just a thought it doesn’t make it true!"
One other follower shared her own relatable story writing, "I’ve had reoccurring melanoma for 12 years. It never get easy in the terms of waiting for biopsy results. But you’re not alone and as frustrating as it is you’re on top of it and early detection is key."
Teddi Mellencamp Posed Nude For Melanoma Awareness
The TV personality is the #GetNaked campaign spokesperson in partnership with the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF). For the campaign, she stripped down to nothing for a Times Square billboard to grab attention and get the word out that it's important to schedule an annual skin check with a dermatologist.
Mellencamp shared the billboard with more information on Instagram earlier this month.
"Melanoma is not just skin cancer," she began her caption. "It can develop anywhere on the body – eyes, scalp, nails, feet, mouth, etc. Melanoma does not discriminate by age, race or gender. #GetNaked and take action to prevent #melanoma and spread awareness today! Check out @CureMelanoma for more information."
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Many of Mellencamp's followers shared their experiences in the comments, as well as thanked her for bringing awareness to a subject that isn't talked about enough.
"I got a check-up on your recommendation. I found out yesterday that I have basal cell cancer on my face. Thank you, thank you, thank you for being there for all of us," wrote one person. "Thank you for being a voice for melanoma," added another.