Mark Hughes has been actively fundraising for brain cancer research since he was diagnosed with the disease in 2013. Through his Mark Hughes Foundation and the Beanies for Brain Cancer campaign, he has raised nearly $30 million for the cause. Hughes attributes part of the growing awareness of brain cancer to individuals like Professor Richard Scolyer, who recently disclosed his gravely deteriorating health situation.
Hughes shared his recent encounter with Scolyer at the Royal North Shore Hospital, where they both faced contrasting news about their conditions. While Hughes was receiving a more hopeful diagnosis, Scolyer was heading up to receive devastating results regarding his cancer’s return. This unsettling experience left Hughes feeling unwell, particularly after witnessing Scolyer’s recent activity on social media, which hinted at his own struggles.
Scolyer, a well-known melanoma pathologist, had opted to explore melanoma science concerning his malignant tumour. Despite previous success in treating his cancer—where he had been cancer-free as of November last year—an aggressive tumour was discovered during a recent surgical procedure.
Hughes expressed admiration for Scolyer and his family’s resilience, highlighting the significant influence Scolyer has had on advancing the understanding of brain cancer. He optimistically noted that such efforts would eventually lead to breakthroughs in treatment. Hughes firmly believes that, collectively, they will find solutions to combat this formidable illness.