Former Australian of the Year Richard Scolyer has shared a heartfelt update on his battle with brain cancer, revealing further progression of the disease while maintaining a message of hope.
The world-renowned pathologist posted the update on Tuesday night to his blog on Facebook, My Uncertain Path, where he spoke candidly about the results of a recent brain scan.
He wrote there “seems to be further progression of my brain tumour (glioblastoma) affecting brain functioning (as me and a few close friends can feel/see)”.
Professor Scolyer, who was jointly named Australian of the Year in 2024 alongside research partner Georgina Long, was diagnosed with the aggressive cancer in 2023.
Glioblastoma is a fast-growing and highly aggressive cancer of the brain or spinal cord, for which treatment options are limited.
After initially being given just months to live, Professor Scolyer became one of the first patients to undergo an experimental treatment for the disease. He later made medical history as the first brain cancer patient to receive combined immunotherapy before surgery, in an effort to advance understanding of the condition.
In February last year, he revealed the cancer had returned and underwent further surgery in March to remove as much of the tumour as possible, although some of it remained.
Despite the latest setback, the 59-year-old struck an optimistic tone, sharing photos from hospital smiling with loved ones.
“While it is a bit disappointing, in the big picture it’s not the end of the road and I’ve got more to do! I certainly haven’t stopped yet.”
“Hopefully I can share more special times with family and friends, and continue to advocate for cancer patients.”
His journey has resonated widely, not only because of the severity of his diagnosis, but because of his lifelong work helping others fight cancer.
Speaking previously to A Current Affair, Professor Scolyer reflected on surpassing expectations.
“In some ways, I feel embarrassed that I’m still here,” Professor Scolyer told the program.
“It’s different to how it was predicted things would happen. For whatever reason, I’m still here. Even more than that. I’m not just here. I can participate in life, enjoy people’s company and still try and make contributions to this problem of brain cancer.”
Images: Facebook
