Heart Radio presenter Jamie Theakston has shared the poignant final words he received from Married At First Sight Australia expert Mel Schilling, who died this week at the age of 54 after a battle with cancer.
Speaking on his show alongside co-stars Amanda Holden and Ashley Roberts, Theakston recalled Schilling's last message to him: 'You and me, we're survivors.' He described her as 'stoic and brave,' adding that she faced her illness with grace and inspired many.
Schilling was diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023 and underwent surgery to remove a tumour. After being given the all-clear, the disease returned and spread to her lungs and brain. On March 12, she revealed her cancer was terminal, and her husband Gareth Brisbane announced her death days later.
Theakston, who himself was diagnosed with stage one laryngeal cancer in September 2024 and is now cancer-free, said Schilling's attitude was remarkable. He noted that she never complained during her treatment and continued filming for MAFS despite her illness.
In a statement on Instagram, Gareth Brisbane paid tribute to his wife, calling her an 'incredible mum, role model, and soulmate.' He said she showed 'courage, grace, compassion and empathy' throughout her two-year battle.
