Melanoma expert and former Australian of the Year Professor Richard Scolyer, 58, dropped a bombshell on social media by revealing that his battle with brain cancer is not going as planned. The renowned researcher was hit with the devastating news of glioblastoma in 2023 and was initially given only eight months to live. However, hope flickered when experimental immunotherapy, based on his melanoma research, managed to keep the cancer at bay for a whopping 18 months.
Recent MRI results have shown that the tumor on the left side of Professor Scolyer’s brain is once again on the move, prompting a wave of mixed emotions for the resilient scientist. Despite the setback, he remains determined to make the most of his time, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support of his family and friends. The Aussie icon, who shared the Australian of the Year title in 2024 with Melanoma Institute Australia co-director Professor Georgina Long, has been transparent about his journey, shedding light on the highs and lows of his treatment.
In February, Professor Scolyer faced the grim reality of the cancer’s return, leading to a surgical procedure in March to extract as much of the tumor as possible. While the operation successfully removed a significant portion of the mass, lingering cancer cells necessitated additional treatment to eradicate them completely. The road ahead remains uncertain, with the professor bracing himself for another operation and exploring future therapy options. Despite the physical and emotional toll of ongoing treatment, Professor Scolyer finds solace in the support of his wife Katie and their children, navigating the challenges together with unwavering determination.
