Teddi Mellencamp Defends Dating, Fostering Dog Amid Stage 4 Cancer Battle

Teddi Mellencamp, former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, has openly defended her decision to date and foster a puppy while battling stage 4 melanoma that has metastasized to her lungs and brain. Despite facing criticism from some who believe she should focus solely on her health and children, Mellencamp emphasized that staying busy with activities like dating and fostering helps her avoid depression and maintain her mental well-being. Her close friend and podcast cohost Tamra Judge strongly rebuked critics, asserting that life does not stop because of cancer and highlighting Mellencamp's constant focus on her health and family. Mellencamp also shared that her doctor, who follows her on social media, encourages her not to view her cancer as terminal, reminding her that each patient's experience is unique. Mellencamp reported some improvement in her condition, with tumors not growing and a small chance of progress, and expressed gratitude for the support from her family and those close to her. She continues immunotherapy treatment and remains candid about her health journey while pushing back against negativity online.