The renowned melanoma specialist and former Australian of the Year received a grim diagnosis in 2023: a grade four glioblastoma, with doctors giving him just months to live.
Despite the prognosis, he has continued to beat the odds for several years. However, his wife, Nicholl, recently shared that the journey is becoming increasingly challenging.
“Things are steadily getting harder for Rich, and time with family and friends continues to be so important for us all,” she expressed in a heartfelt message on Scolyer’s Instagram account.
“I know we’re not alone in this journey and we appreciate everyone’s continued love and support,” she added.
Signing off with “Love Katie,” Nicholl included recent photos of Scolyer smiling alongside friends and family.
The final image captured a tender moment between the couple, sitting close with their arms wrapped around each other.
Their daughter Emily Scolyer commented on the post, writing: “You and Dad are so strong! Love you Mum.”
Nicholl’s comments today echo an update Scolyer shared in late April, when he revealed his cancer journey was “getting a bit tougher”.
“Particularly with my energy levels and some memory problems,” he wrote on Instagram at the time.
“But I’m still enjoying good times with family and friends.
“I’ve asked my family to continue to share my journey, even when I’m not able to do it well myself at times.
“Thanks for all the ongoing love and support.”
The last two posts shared to Scolyer’s Instagram page prior to Nicholl’s message today were signed off by her and Richard both.
Today marks one of the first authored by Nicholl alone.
In September 2025, the federal government committed $5.9 million to establish the Richard Scolyer Chair in Brain Cancer Research at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.
The program was named in Scolyer’s honour due to his contribution to brain cancer research and advocacy.
The funding will be used to support the salaries of the professorial chair as well as postdoctoral fellows, research assistants and PhD scholarships, along with research costs.
