Former Australian of the Year Professor Richard Scolyer has provided a grim health update in his battle with incurable brain cancer.
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Professor Scolyer, 58, shared an MRI scan with his social media followers that shows further progress of glioblastoma.
Glioblastoma is an aggressive type of brain cancer that arises from astrocytes, the supportive cells in the brain.
"Whilst this may not be the best direction to be heading with my changes, amazingly (to me) I still seem keen to keep living, loving and having fun, whenever possible," he said.
"I feel like there are quite a few people on my team (including my family & friends) and they make me happy & proud!"
He recently celebrated the 21st birthday of his eldest daughter Emily in May, describing her as "an amazing daughter" whom he "loves so much".
The Launceston-born pathologist was a joint 2024 Australian of the Year with Professor Georgina Long, a medical director at the Melanoma Institute Australia.
He underwent experimental treatment devised by Professor Long, based on melanoma science, which helped develop a revolutionary world-first melanoma treatment.
He is also the first brain cancer patient to undertake innovative pre-surgery combination immunotherapy that was credited with saving his life.
READ MORE: Nominate for 2026 Australian of the Year
Carla Mascarenhas
Carla Mascarenhas is the NSW correspondent covering breaking news, state politics and investigations. She is based in Sydney. Contact her on carla.mascarenhas@austcommunitymedia.com.au
