Married at First Sight’s (MAFS) Mel Schilling has spoken out about Elle MacPherson’s message in which she said she treated her cancer diagnosis “holistically”.
Mel announced in late 2023 that she had been diagnosed with colon cancer after experiencing severe pain while filing the 11th season of Married At First Sight. She’s been undergoing treatment for the cancer ever since.
Meanwhile, Elle recently revealed in her upcoming memoir, Life, Lessons, and Learning to Trust Yourself that she secretly battled breast cancer seven years ago and is now in remission. The model said that she took a holistic approach to her illness.
In light of Elle’s revelation, Mel has criticised her choice to use her platform to recommend a holistic approach to treating cancer.
What did Mel Schilling say about Elle Macpherson’s holistic approach to cancer?
Mel took to her Instagram to share a video about her own experience with cancer, and to share more details about the concerns she has about Elle using her platform to talk about her own approach.
“I’m having some thoughts about Elle and the interviews she is doing lately, as a relatively new member of the cancer community and as someone who has just completed six months of chemo,” The MAFS expert said in a video shared to Instagram.
“Elle revealed several years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer and saw more than 32 doctors, who advised her to have a combination of chemo, radio and hormone therapy.”
“She chose not to do that and chose a more holistic, wellness approach, which included things like prayer, meditation and so on.”
Mel went on to point out that she’s worried Elle’s message could encourage people who are suffering from cancer to avoid taking doctor’s advice.
“I believe in a holistic approach as well, but my approach includes chemo, too,” she said.
“I have a problem with Elle Macpherson, as a high-profile role model, a person who is seen to be incredibly aspirational… and she’s selling products.”
“So, for me, this message she is peddling at the moment – which is her own story, sure – but it’s plagued with judgement, arrogance, superiority and privilege. It concerns me.”
“My greatest concern is people will listen to her and then choose not to take the medical route and could be in danger –my people out there in the cancer community – who are struggling to get through chemo.
“Who would love to be able to have access to this whole range of other treatments that are probably quite expensive and maybe not accessible to the average person.”
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