Teddi Mellencamp at iHeartRadio 102.7 KIIS FM's Jingle Ball 2024 - Red Carpet

'RHOBH' Teddi Mellencamp's Dad Reportedly 'Went Right Into Rescue Mode' Amid Cancer Battle

Home / News / 'RHOBH' Teddi Mellencamp's Dad Reportedly 'Went Right Into Rescue Mode' Amid Cancer Battle

By Afouda Bamidele on March 25, 2025 at 9:00 PM EDT

Teddi Mellencamp's one-time estranged dad, John Mellencamp, has put his hero cape on since the reality star's tumor surgery episodes.

The "Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills" alum's dad has reportedly not stopped showing up for his daughter since she started the journey towards getting rid of her multiple brain tumors.

Teddi Mellencamp disclosed to her fans in February that the doctors discovered significant tumors on her brain that had been festering for about half a year and causing her severe headaches.

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Teddi Mellencamp's Dad Is Keeping The Vibe Positive As She Battles Cancer

Teddi Mellencamp at the 2022 iHeartRadio Music Festival - Night 2 - Press Room
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Teddi is courageously facing her battle with brain tumors, surrounded by the unwavering support of her loved ones, particularly her father, John.

A source shared that John has taken on the role of a supportive father, immediately rushing to be with her and offering her unwavering support and attention. One source claimed:

"John has been super dad, he totally rushed to her side and went right into rescue mode."

Despite their ups and downs, he reportedly remains a constant presence for her, demonstrating his love and commitment, especially as she navigates this difficult journey while caring for her three children.

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The source highlighted that John, at 73, has been deeply emotional about his daughter's health, as she is still his "baby girl," even though she is now a mother herself. He has also managed to keep his composure in front of Teddi, wanting to be her rock, even though he feels the weight of her pain. 

Before her major surgery, he was understandably terrified but maintained a facade of positivity, reassuring her that everything would go well. According to In Touch, following the surgery, Teddi has endured significant pain, which is understandably hard for John to witness. 

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The Bravo Star Acknowledged Her Father's Efforts Towards Her Recovery

Although her father wishes he could alleviate her suffering, his current focus is on ensuring Teddi receives the best care possible and being a comforting presence by her side throughout her recovery process.

The TV personality has reportedly faced a challenging recovery after her surgery on February 25. After spending over two weeks in the hospital, she was finally able to return home on March 4.

However, at a follow-up appointment, doctors discovered three additional tumors in her brain and two lumps in her lungs. In her first podcast episode since the surgery, Teddi opened up about her journey, expressing how her father's support has been a significant source of strength during this difficult time. 

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She candidly shared her darkest moments, where she felt incapacitated and feared for her life, saying she struggled with basic activities like seeing, walking, and even getting out of bed.

Despite the painful curves in your journey, she noted that she is beginning to see a glimmer of hope for the future.

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Teddi Admitted Her Parent's Divorce Shaped Her Troubled Relationship With Her Father

Last year, PEOPLE shared that Teddi appeared on a podcast with Kate and Olivier Hudson, where she opened up about her complicated relationship with John.

She reflected on how her parents' divorce influenced their rift, admitting that instead of flying to Indiana to visit him every other weekend, she often chose to stay home with friends, which she later recognized might have hurt his feelings.

Teddi recounted a harrowing moment when an argument led her father to say, "You know what? F-k you, Teddi. I have other kids," resulting in years of silence between them. Although they have since reconciled, she shared how deeply her parents' divorce affected her upbringing. 

One significant perspective she offered was regarding the impact of parental actions on children. She noted that when she has disagreements with her stepdaughter, she tells her now estranged husband to avoid calling her by her mother's name in anger. 

Both her parents had done this to her, which made her feel even more estranged. Despite the problematic dynamics, Teddi emphasized that she still loved her parents.

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The 43-Year-Old Found Solace In Horseback Riding Amid Surgery Recovery

The "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" alum recently shared an uplifting life update on her Instagram, highlighting her passion for horseback riding as a source of strength amid her tumor diagnosis.

Following her recent tumor removal surgery, The Blast shared that she expressed deep appreciation for her horse, whom she affectionately called the "horse of a lifetime." 

In her post, she celebrated their special bond, stating that they would do anything for each other and thanking her horse, Toad, for bringing her joy and a sense of vitality.

Dressed stylishly in neutral tones with brown knee-high boots and a matching helmet, Teddi also showcased her success in a horseback riding competition by posting images of her participation badges. 

The Bravo alum sent a strong message of resilience, addressing her brain tumors directly and emphasizing her refusal to let them disrupt her love for life. 

Teddi thanked her supporters for helping her regain confidence and mentioned plans for her horse's future competitions, promising they would return to the show ring soon.

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Teddi Mellencamp's Sister, Justice Mellencamp, Raved About Her Strength Post Surgery

Teddi Mellencamp attends World premiere of 'Christopher Robin'
Lumeimages / MEGA

The TV star definitely has the love and adoration of her family on lockdown! Before providing an update on Teddi's surgery, her sister Justice shared an emotional moment on her Instagram Story.

She posted a black-and-white photo of herself keeping watch over Teddi as she slept in the hospital, expressing how difficult it was to see a loved one in pain.

Justice referred to Teddi as the "strongest person" she knows and appreciated the overwhelming support from friends and family. While she has been trying to respond to messages, she mentioned that Teddi would share her journey when she feels ready.

During her trip home, Justice reflected on the strength of their tribe who showed up with immense support and thanked everyone for their prayers.

Get well soon Teddi Mellencamp!

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