World-renowned pathologist Richard Scolyer recently received significant recognition at the Australian Book Industry Awards, where his co-authored book, “Brainstorm,” won the Social Impact Book of the Year. This accolade comes during a challenging period for Scolyer, who has been battling an aggressive form of brain cancer known as glioblastoma. Now 65, when diagnosed in 2023, he was given an expected survival of only six to eight months. Through his own research—and under the mentorship of Georgina Long, co-director of the Melanoma Institute—he pioneered a revolutionary treatment regimen. Through this new research-driven approach, he has beaten the odds by controlling his cancer for the past 22 months.
Scholyer’s journey through ill-health, health care and recovery is traced in “Brainstorm,” written with journalist Garry Maddox. It’s a deeply moving memoir about his remarkable, heartbreaking struggle against brain cancer. It helps to illuminate the very real challenges that patients continue to fight every day against this terrible diagnosis. Despite a recent setback in March 2025, when Scolyer revealed that his cancer had returned following complex surgery, he continues to focus on his treatment and its potential impact on others.
A Groundbreaking Journey
Richard Scolyer, 58, is a pathologist and melanoma specialist whose career has focused on the understanding and treatment of melanoma. His knowledge was key to developing transformative therapies. These advances have dramatically changed the treatment paradigm for all patients with advanced melanoma. He emphasizes the unbelievable advances that have occurred. Save Fenton Gallagher “Fifteen years ago, stage 4 melanoma with metastasis grave to the body was a death sentence for all,” he says. Now we are curing almost 60 per cent of these patients.”
His own fight with glioblastoma has had a profound impact on his perspective on life. Scolyer’s extraordinary new immunotherapy treatment was experimental at the time but staved off Scolyer’s cancer from recurring for nearly two years. His experience underscores the need for continued research, as he expressed, “Ultimately, we’re trying to make a difference for brain cancer patients. I hope that’s where it ends up.”
The accolades he’s earned for “Brainstorm” since speak to that extraordinary resilience. It acknowledges his commitment to educating the public about brain cancer and the necessity for groundbreaking treatments.
Facing Mortality with Positivity
Now, even after receiving a grim prognosis, Scolyer is hopeful and encourages others to live life to the fullest. His message is clear: cherish every moment. “Be passionate about it, enjoy hanging out with the people that you love. Yeah, enjoy it,” he advises.
Scolyer recalls the fragility of life. This new understanding has motivated him to focus on more quality time with his family while still making impactful contributions to society. “I guess in reality, I have focused down on the things that I like doing. Spending more time with my family is number one, but contributing to society. It’s something I’ve done for a long, long time,” he noted.
His grit and resolve in the wake of medical challenges has motivated and uplifted so many. In 2024, he was co-awarded the title of Australian of the Year with Georgina Long, for their unprecedented contributions to cancer research and patient care.
The Road Ahead
As Scolyer moves forward in his battle against brain cancer, he remains hopeful for himself and others facing similar challenges. His incredible journey is a testament not just to the promise of cutting edge medicines, but to the indomitable human spirit.
Reflecting on his current status, he remarked, “I’m still here and still able to chat to you so I’m pretty pleased about that.” His ongoing commitment to fighting cancer and advocating for change in treatment processes offers hope to those grappling with similar diagnoses.
