Former Australian of the Year Richard Scolyer Faces Brain Cancer Recurrence

Image credits: Flavio Brancaleone

Professor Richard Scolyer, the former joint Australian of the Year, has been diagnosed with a highly aggressive and incurable brain cancer, and is now facing the possibility of a recurrence. The 58-year-old world-renowned pathologist and researcher has been undergoing treatment for the past 21 months, and has shown remarkable positivity and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges he is facing, Scolyer remains determined to continue fighting, and is scheduled to undergo surgery at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse in Camperdown to explore the changes in his brain and remove as much of the tumour as possible without affecting brain function.

Scolyer's experimental treatment, which included three doses of immunotherapy 12 days before debulking surgery, and a personalised cancer vaccine, has shown promising results, with research revealing an increased abundance and variety of cancer-fighting immune cells in the cut-out tumour. The hope is that immunotherapy can revolutionise brain cancer treatment, as it has done for melanoma and other cancers. Scolyer's treatment has been closely monitored, and he has been documenting his journey on social media, raising awareness about the disease and the importance of continued research into new treatments.

Throughout his treatment, Scolyer has remained remarkably positive, and has continued to work on research papers, including one on his own tumour. He has also appreciated spending more time with his family, including his wife Katie and children Emily, Matt, and Lucy. Scolyer's story has inspired many, and he has become a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. As he prepares for his upcoming surgery, Scolyer remains determined to continue fighting, and is grateful for the support of his loved ones and the medical team caring for him.

The timeline of events in Scolyer's case is as follows: * May 2023: Scolyer is diagnosed with a highly aggressive and incurable brain cancer * June 2023: Scolyer undergoes debulking surgery to remove the bulk of the tumour * July 2023: Scolyer begins experimental treatment, including immunotherapy and a personalised cancer vaccine * January 2024: Scolyer is named joint Australian of the Year, along with Professor Georgina Long, for their groundbreaking work on melanoma research * March 2025: Scolyer undergoes surgery to explore changes in his brain and remove as much of the tumour as possible without affecting brain function. Some of the key stakeholders involved in Scolyer's treatment include: * Professor Georgina Long, Scolyer's colleague and co-director of the Melanoma Institute Australia * The medical team at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse in Camperdown * Scolyer's family, including his wife Katie and children Emily, Matt, and Lucy * The research community, including scientists and experts in the field of brain cancer and immunotherapy.

Scolyer's story highlights the importance of continued research into new treatments for brain cancer, and the need for increased awareness and support for those affected by the disease. As he continues to fight against his illness, Scolyer remains a source of inspiration and hope for many, and his legacy will continue to impact the lives of others through his groundbreaking research and unwavering determination. The use of immunotherapy in Scolyer's treatment has shown promising results, and it is hoped that this approach will become a viable option for others affected by brain cancer in the future.