A Heartfelt Update from Gareth Brisbane
Gareth Brisbane, the husband of the late Mel Schilling, has shared a touching update about how he and their daughter, Maddie, are coping a month after Mel’s passing. The popular Australian TV personality passed away in London on March 24 following a courageous battle with cancer. She was laid to rest in a private funeral, which marked a significant moment for her family and friends.
Brisbane took to Schilling’s social media account to express his gratitude to fans for the overwhelming support they have received since the heartbreaking news. “Thanks so much for all the messages of support over the past month since our girl’s passing, Maddie and I have drawn enormous strength from how so very loved she was and is,” he wrote.
The funeral ceremony took place on April 9, attended by close friends and family in the UK. It was also live-streamed back to Australia for those who couldn’t be there in person. “Maddie announced on the morning of the funeral that she had written a little speech which she delivered beautifully,” Brisbane shared with fans of the 10-year-old. “Every inch her mother’s daughter and I couldn’t be prouder.”
A Special Place for Memories
In a heartfelt gesture, Brisbane revealed an unexpected location where part of Mel’s ashes were scattered. “Last weekend we scattered some of Mel’s ashes at the lighthouse in my hometown of Whitehead, Northern Ireland as was her wish,” he said. “It’s a special place that really resonated with her, a place where strangers say hello as you pass, and a place we can now come back to to reflect on our incredible 15 years together.”
This location holds deep significance for the couple, as it was a place Mel cherished. The lighthouse represents not only a beautiful landscape but also a symbol of their enduring love and connection.
A New Chapter in Bali
Looking ahead, Brisbane shared that he and Maddie will be moving on to their next chapter in Bali, where the couple had their wedding in 2018. “No better place to heal, a place that we all loved and where we still have some of our dearest friends who had the most wonderful blessing ceremony for Mel at our new villa last weekend,” he said.
Bali offers a serene environment for healing and reflection, and the couple is looking forward to creating new memories in this beautiful location. The island has always been a special place for them, filled with love and friendship.
A Legacy of Love and Strength
Mel Schilling was diagnosed with colon cancer in December 2023. Earlier this year, she shared a devastating health update revealing that the cancer had spread to her brain. Tragically, she passed away just 11 days later.
Throughout her career, Schilling made a significant impact in the field of psychology and life coaching. She built a 20-year career as a registered psychologist, life coach, and therapist before joining the MAFS experiment in its second season in 2016. Her success on the show led her to become a part of the MAFS UK expert couch in 2021.
Moving Forward with Hope
As the family continues to navigate this difficult time, they carry with them the memories and love that Mel brought into their lives. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her and those who followed her journey.
Brisbane and Maddie are determined to embrace the future with hope and positivity, honoring Mel’s memory while finding peace in their new chapter. Their story is a testament to the strength of love and the importance of cherishing every moment.
