In a deeply personal revelation, Errol Musk, the father of billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, has announced for the first time that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. The 78-year-old South African engineer and retired pilot made the revelation in an emotional interview, in which he also voiced his full support for the Mail’s Prostate Cancer Screening Campaign, aiming to raise awareness among men about early detection.

A Silent Battle Brought to Light

Errol Musk explained that his diagnosis came unexpectedly during a routine medical check-up late last year. “There were no symptoms,” he said. “No pain, no changes. If I hadn’t gone in for that screening, I would still be unaware.”

Doctors discovered elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels, which led to further testing and a confirmed diagnosis. “It was a shock, of course,” Musk admitted. “But I’ve been blessed in life, and I know that early detection gives me a fighting chance.”

The Musk Family Legacy Faces a New Challenge

Errol Musk is known for his complex relationship with son Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX. While their relationship has often made headlines for its ups and downs, Errol says Elon was one of the first people he called after hearing the news.

“Elon told me to do everything I could to fight it,” he said. “He’s not one to get emotional, but I know he cares deeply in his own way.”

The family patriarch added that other members of the Musk family were “rattled but supportive,” and that his younger children had been particularly encouraging.

A Call to Action for Men Worldwide

Errol’s diagnosis has now become a catalyst for advocacy. Inspired by his personal experience, he has thrown his support behind the Mail’s Prostate Cancer Screening Campaign, aimed at urging men over 50 to get regular PSA tests, even in the absence of symptoms.

“This cancer hides in silence,” Errol warned. “By the time you feel something is wrong, it may already be too late.”

Statistics show that prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men globally, yet it remains highly treatable when caught early. Errol Musk’s decision to speak publicly is expected to have a significant impact, particularly given his global name recognition.

Praise from Health Experts

Leading cancer specialists and health campaigners have praised Musk’s decision to go public.

“Public figures coming forward about prostate cancer makes a real difference,” said Dr. Angela Kline, an oncologist at Cape Town Medical Institute. “Men often delay or avoid screenings. But when someone like Errol Musk says, ‘Get tested,’ people listen.”

The Prostate Cancer Foundation also released a statement commending Errol’s bravery and his efforts to destigmatize male health issues.

Reflections on Aging, Mortality, and Regret

Errol Musk was candid when asked how the diagnosis had changed his outlook on life.

“I’ve lived a long and eventful life,” he said. “But facing cancer forces you to reflect — not just on your future, but on your past. The mistakes, the relationships, the things you took for granted.”

He acknowledged regrets but insisted that the diagnosis had also sharpened his appreciation for everyday life. “I wake up grateful now. Grateful to see the sun, to hear birds. I’m even grateful for the treatment, however uncomfortable it may be.”

What’s Next for Errol Musk?

Currently undergoing a series of treatments, including hormone therapy and closely monitored PSA testing, Errol Musk remains optimistic. “I’m not ready to throw in the towel,” he said. “I’ve got a few more chapters to live.”

He also hopes to collaborate with international prostate cancer awareness organizations and may participate in future campaigns aimed at reaching men in underserved communities, particularly in South Africa and other parts of the Global South.

Final Message: “Don’t Wait”

In a heartfelt message to readers, Musk concluded: “Don’t wait for symptoms. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If my story convinces even one man to get tested, then going public was worth it.”

As Errol Musk steps into a new role — not just as the father of one of the world’s most talked-about tech moguls, but as a prostate cancer awareness advocate — he may very well save lives simply by sharing his truth.