In a poignant open letter to all Australians, published after his passing, Professor Richard Scolyer shared his greatest lesson: cancer does not define us. The world-renowned melanoma pathologist and cancer researcher, who was also the 2024 joint Australian of the Year, died at age 59 after a three-year battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Writing his final farewell, Scolyer expressed pride in his lifelong contributions to patient care and cancer research. He noted that he wanted to keep contributing even in his darkest hour. As the first patient to receive an experimental brain cancer treatment based on his own melanoma science, he helped develop a clinical trial and advocated for greater investment in brain cancer research.
A Life Dedicated to Science
Scolyer reflected on his career, which included starting the world's largest melanoma biobank, authoring over 1,000 research publications, and lecturing globally. He held leadership roles at the American Joint Committee on Cancer and the World Health Organisation. His work in melanoma immunotherapy contributed to soaring survival rates for advanced melanoma.
He also mentored the next generation of doctors and researchers, calling it perhaps the greatest reward of his life. 'I have always been driven by the belief that we all have a responsibility to try to change the future for others and leave the world a better place,' he wrote.
Family and Gratitude
Scolyer expressed deep gratitude to his wife Katie, children Emily, Matthew, and Lucy, and his elderly parents in Tasmania. He acknowledged that his cancer journey brought challenges but also drew the family closer. 'Family is everything,' he wrote.
He thanked his online community and fellow Australians for their support, saying, 'You've laughed with me, cried with me and provided encouragement to keep going just when I needed it most.'
A Call to Action
To his colleagues, Scolyer urged them to stay inquisitive and brave. To cancer patients, he encouraged enrolment in research and clinical trials. To government and the community, he pleaded for continued funding of science and medical research.
Perhaps his greatest lesson: 'Cancer does not define us. It may be the current road we are travelling but it is not our entire journey. A terminal cancer diagnosis provides clarity as to what truly matters – the importance of relationships, true friendship, and selflessness.'
Scolyer concluded with a heartfelt thank you and expressed hope that his legacy would inspire others to pursue their dreams with humility, love, and compassion.
