Renowned researcher, clinician and advocate Professor Richard Scolyer AO dedicated his life and career to advancing cancer research and improving outcomes for patients around the world.
In an open letter published after his passing, Professor Scolyer shared a final message with researchers, clinicians, patients and the wider community encouraging continued support for research and the pursuit of progress in cancer care.
As an organisation dedicated to advancing cancer research, Icon Cancer Foundation is honoured to share his final message. In doing so, we hope to help fulfil his wish that the importance of research continues to inspire researchers, clinicians, patients and the wider community.
Recognised as the 2024 Australian of the Year, Professor Scolyer’s groundbreaking work transformed our understanding of melanoma, helping to shape new treatment approaches for patients around the world.
His commitment to research was reflected not only in his professional achievements, but also in his own experience following his diagnosis with an aggressive and incurable Grade 4 glioblastoma in 2023.
In an extraordinary act of courage and generosity, Professor Scolyer became the first person in the world to receive a novel immunotherapy treatment before surgery for this type of brain tumour.
By participating in research during his own treatment, he continued doing what had defined his career – helping advance knowledge that may improve outcomes for patients.
Throughout his career, Professor Scolyer championed the importance of research and scientific discovery. Reflecting on his contributions to cancer research, Professor Scolyer wrote:
I sincerely hope the scientific data and awareness I have generated will provide a platform for others to build upon to ultimately make a difference for future cancer patients.
His words reflect a truth understood by researchers and clinicians across cancer care, that progress is rarely the result of a single breakthrough, but rather the collective work of researchers, clinicians and patients building knowledge over time.
This sentiment is shared by Icon’s Director of Medical Oncology, Associate Professor Louise Nott.
Cancer research is about building on the knowledge of research done by our predecessors. It’s the belief that every finding can become a foundation for the next treatment.
Professor Scolyer’s final message was also a clear call to continue investing in research and clinical trials.
To my research and clinical colleagues, I implore you to stay inquisitive and brave and keep striving to break new ground. And to government and the wider community, please keep funding science and medical research. This is the most impactful way that you too can make a difference.
As Icon Group’s Global Chief Medical Officer, Dr Ian Irving, notes, this collective effort is what drives progress in cancer care.
Every study, every participant and every insight contributes to the growing body of knowledge that helps shape the future of cancer care. At Icon, this principle underpins our commitment to supporting clinical trials and advancing cancer research.
Honouring every clinical trial participant who helps move cancer care forward
Professor Scolyer’s willingness to participate in research during his own treatment is also a powerful reminder of the important role patients play in advancing cancer care.
Every person who takes part in a clinical trial helps researchers contributes valuable knowledge that helps researchers better understand cancer and shape the treatments of tomorrow.
This commitment continues through Icon Cancer Foundation’s support of clinical trials and research programs aimed at improving cancer care for current and future generations.
Professor Scolyer encouraged others to consider participating in research, writing:
To all cancer patients, I encourage you to consider enrolling in research and clinical trials.
Professor Richard Scolyer’s legacy will continue through the research he inspired, the knowledge he helped create and the countless lives that may benefit from the discoveries still to come.
His intention was simple, yet profound.
I hope I have in some small way made the road ahead easier and smoother for others.