In a heartfelt open letter to all Australians, Professor Richard A. Scolyer AO shared his final thoughts before his death at age 59. The letter, intended for publication upon his passing, reflects on a life dedicated to cancer research, patient care, and family.
A Life of Contribution
Scolyer, a world-leading melanoma pathologist and cancer researcher, wrote: 'I wanted to keep contributing, even in my darkest hour.' He detailed his 35-year career, from pioneering melanoma treatments to becoming the first patient to receive experimental brain cancer therapy based on his own research.
Family and Gratitude
He expressed deep gratitude to his wife Katie and children Emily, Matthew, and Lucy, noting that cancer brought them closer. 'Family is everything,' he wrote, also thanking his elderly parents in Tasmania and his brother Mark.
Lessons from Cancer
'Perhaps the greatest lesson to come from these last three years is that cancer does not define us,' Scolyer wrote. He urged Australians to focus on empathy, compassion, and relationships, which he called 'what truly matters.'
A Call to Action
Scolyer implored colleagues to 'stay inquisitive and brave,' encouraged cancer patients to consider clinical trials, and called on government to fund medical research. He expressed humility at having a brain cancer research chair named in his honor at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse.
His final message: 'Thank you for your outpouring of love and support... I hope I have in some small way made the road ahead easier and smoother for others.' He signed off hoping to be remembered as a 'proud everyday Aussie who gave it a crack.'
