Elon Musk Shares Emotional Update as His Mother Maye Battles Cancer: “She’s the Strongest Woman I Know”

A wave of sorrow swept across the tech world this week after Elon Musk revealed that his mother, Maye Musk, has been diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer—a rare and aggressive illness that affects the upper part of the throat behind the nose.

Musk shared the heartbreaking news on his X (formerly Twitter) account, writing: “My mother, the strongest woman I know, is battling nasopharyngeal cancer. Please keep her in your prayers.” The message struck a chord with millions, sparking an outpouring of support from across the globe.

At SpaceX’s headquarters in Hawthorne, California, the mood was described as deeply subdued. Employees, visibly shaken, spoke of Maye not only as Elon’s mother but as a behind-the-scenes force who inspired and propelled much of the Musk family’s ambitious vision.

Maye Musk, 76, is a celebrated model, accomplished dietitian, and author. But for many, her story is most powerful because of her resilience. After escaping an abusive marriage, she raised Elon and his two siblings as a single mother, eventually building her own career in fashion and nutrition. She famously became a CoverGirl model at 69 and walked the runway at global fashion weeks well into her seventies.

Now, as she faces a life-threatening illness, her personal story of strength enters a new chapter—one defined not by success or beauty, but by the courage to fight.

Nasopharyngeal cancer is a rare type of head and neck cancer. It can severely affect a person’s ability to speak, eat, and breathe. Musk did not reveal many medical details, but noted that his mother is already undergoing treatment and “fighting like a warrior.”

The tech billionaire’s post has since sparked a wave of compassion. The hashtag #PrayForMaye began trending across platforms, with fans, fellow tech leaders, celebrities, and even political figures offering words of encouragement.

Public figures like Oprah Winfrey and Arianna Huffington reposted Musk’s message, praising Maye’s strength. Online forums dedicated to Tesla, SpaceX, and other Musk ventures became digital gathering places where thousands posted messages of hope.

In moments like these, the often-divisive world of social media showed its capacity for unity. While Elon Musk is no stranger to controversy, this announcement offered a rare glimpse into his personal vulnerability—and the deep love he holds for the woman who shaped him.

Maye’s life has been defined by transformation, endurance, and reinvention. Now, as she confronts a new and painful challenge, the world is watching—and standing with her.