Australian doctor Richard Scolyer, who became both a physician and a patient in his own fight against brain cancer, has died, leaving behind a legacy of research that is expected to help future patients. Those paying tribute said his terminal prognosis did not slow him down in his final months.
A lifelong athlete, Scolyer kept up his physical pursuits even as his illness progressed. In his final months he reached his goal of completing 250 parkruns, and in August he took part in Sydney's City to Surf.
Throughout his illness, he framed his own situation as a chance to advance medicine. He said that as both a doctor and a cancer patient he was trying to push the field forward and to raise awareness of the disease.
He was also grateful for the time he had with his family. Scolyer said he had been able to spend more time than expected with his wife Katie and their children Lucy, Matt and Emily. It is not yet clear whether the experimental immunotherapy he received played a role in that additional time.
His case has nonetheless paved the way for future brain cancer breakthroughs. He noted that discoveries had been generated in 10 weeks that would normally take many years, and said he was proud that the work would make a difference for future brain cancer patients.
In a posthumous open letter to the Australian public, Scolyer thanked people for their outpouring of love and support. He wrote that he hoped he had in some small way made the road ahead easier and smoother for others.
He said he hoped to be remembered as a proud everyday Australian who gave it a crack and, in doing so, inspired others to pursue their dreams and passions with humility, love and compassion. His groundbreaking work, those remembering him said, will continue to save the lives of many others.