Prominent melanoma expert, Professor Richard Scolyer, has disclosed that his brain cancer has returned, leading to a heartbreaking prognosis of potentially just three months left to live. In a touching interview on A Current Affair with Ally Langdon, Scolyer expressed his sadness, stating, "I feel sad," but emphasised, "I’m not ready to go yet. I love my life."
Scolyer was originally diagnosed with glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer, in July 2023, with doctors estimating he had six to nine months to live. Defying this grim expectation, he chose to leverage his extensive knowledge about melanoma in an experimental approach to combat his brain cancer alongside his close colleague, Professor Georgina Long.
By embracing the role of a "human guinea pig," Scolyer pioneered a method utilising melanoma treatments—employing combined immunotherapy and a personalised cancer vaccine prior to surgery—which had never been attempted before for brain cancer. As a result, he enjoyed a period of being cancer-free, far exceeding the initial expectations for his survival. During this time, he earned recognition, was named co-Australian of the Year, met King Charles, authored a book, and made significant contributions to medical science.
However, a recent surgery revealed that the cancer has recurred, and while there are potential drug therapies available, their effectiveness is uncertain. Scolyer candidly confessed his heart is no longer filled with the same hope, stating, “It could help, but my heart’s not in the same place as what it was before.” His current focus is on cherishing moments with his family, including his wife Katie and children Emily, Matthew, and Lucy, emphasising the importance of making the most of each day.
Though it remains unclear whether his radical treatment has contributed to his survival or merely luck, Scolyer is already influencing the medical community significantly. Plans are underway for a clinical trial that will explore this novel immunotherapy approach further, involving a broader patient base in Australia and the United States. As Scolyer reflects on his journey, he remains optimistic about the potential benefits for future brain cancer patients, expressing pride in his contributions to the ongoing fight against this devastating illness. "This is something worth pursuing more aggressively to prove whether or not it works. I really hope for future patients that it makes a difference," he remarked.