Renowned cancer researcher Professor Richard Scolyer’s family has provided a terrifying update on his battle with the deadly illness.
After receiving a stage four brain cancer diagnosis in June 2023, the world-renowned pathologist and 2024 Australian of the Year was given eight months to live.
After three years, he is still fighting the illness with courage.
Dr. Katie Nicholl, his wife, shared on Instagram on Saturday that the 59-year-old’s life was getting harder.
“Time with family and friends continues to be so important for us all, and things are steadily getting harder for Rich,” she wrote. “I know we’re not alone in this journey and we appreciate everyone’s continued love and support.”
Recent pictures of Professor Scolyer with friends and family were used as the caption for the post.
More than 1,800 encouraging notes were sent, including one from Emily, the couple’s daughter.
Along with the message were photos of the Tasmanian with friends and family, including one of the professor gazing into his wife’s eyes.
Rich’s wife (left) commented, “Things are steadily getting harder for Rich.” “You and dad are so strong, love you mum.”
Messages of encouragement were given by hundreds of additional well-wishers.
One person commented, “It’s heartbreaking and inspiring at the same time to watch Richard face this with such courage while surrounded by so much love.” “Thank you for letting people share in these moments, I think many Australians are holding your family close in their hearts right now.”
“I think the entire country is holding you tight and sending their love,” another person said.
“Thank you, your work on earth may be done and all we can do is surround those you love with gratitude and blessings for sharing you with us,” wrote a third person.
Professor Scolyer was initially diagnosed with stage four brain cancer three years ago next month.
Seven months later, he and his research partner, Georgina Long, co-director of the Melanoma Institute Australia, shared the 2024 Australian of the Year award for saving thousands of lives by developing novel immunotherapy therapies for melanoma.
Professor Scolyer was diagnosed with stage four brain cancer three years ago next month.
In addition, he was the first patient with brain cancer to get this treatment.
The most recent update follows Prof. Scolyer’s announcement in March that although his brain tumor had grown, he had not given up on the battle. “Not the best day ever,” he wrote on social media.
I had another brain scan today, and then I had further conversations with the neuro-oncology team, who are still providing amazing care.
My brain tumor (glioblastoma) appears to be progressing more, impairing brain function (as I and a few close friends can feel/see).
Even though it is a little disappointing, I still have more work to do and it’s not the end of the road! I adore and relish difficulties.
“I haven’t stopped yet, for sure.” I hope to continue advocating for cancer patients and spend more memorable moments with loved ones.
He disclosed that his glioblastoma was getting “tougher to treat” a year ago.
Professor Scolyer achieved his 250th parkrun nine months prior, a goal he established at the time of his initial diagnosis.
“Things go up and down with how I’m feeling during treatment,” he added at the time. “This week, it feels like the fog has lifted a bit and I’ve been able to enjoy some really special moments with family and friends.”
Additionally, he acknowledged that his glioblastoma was getting “tougher to treat.”
“A recent MRI scan showed further progress of my glioblastoma (IDH wild-type, etc.) and related adjacent reactive change in the left side of my brain,” he said. “Even though 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.” “I feel like there are quite a few people on my team, including my family and friends, and they make me happy and proud!”
