Introduction: The Emotional Story of Fernando Mendoza and His Mother
Fernando Mendoza has become one of the most talked-about names in college football — not just for his standout play on the field, but for the deeply personal story behind his rise to fame. As the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner and star quarterback for the Indiana Hoosiers, Mendoza’s athletic achievements have captivated sports fans nationwide. Yet, it is his bond with his mother, Elsa Mendoza, and her health battle that adds profound meaning to his success.
In this article, we’ll explore what disease Fernando Mendoza’s mom has, how it has impacted their lives, and how the young quarterback has turned his platform into a force for awareness, advocacy, and hope.
Who Is Fernando Mendoza?
Fernando Mendoza is a rising college football superstar who plays quarterback for the Indiana Hoosiers. In the 2025 season, he led Indiana to a perfect record, captured a Big Ten Championship, and earned the most prestigious individual honor in college football — the Heisman Trophy.
Born in Miami and previously a standout at the University of California, Berkeley, Mendoza’s journey has not just been about statistics. Behind every touchdown and clutch performance is the story of a family shaped by love, resilience, and shared challenge.
What Disease Does Fernando Mendoza’s Mom Have? The MS Diagnosis
The question many fans have asked — “What disease does Fernando Mendoza’s mom have?” — has a heartfelt answer.
Fernando’s mom, Elsa Mendoza, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2014.
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system — specifically the brain and spinal cord. MS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering (myelin) of nerve fibers, leading to communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms can vary widely and often include fatigue, numbness, balance difficulties, and problems with mobility. There is currently no cure for MS, though treatments can help manage symptoms and slow progression.
Over time, Elsa’s condition has progressed to the point where she uses a wheelchair to get around. Despite the physical limitations, she remains an active and inspirational presence in Fernando’s life.
The Emotional Journey: How the Diagnosis Unfolded
What makes Elsa’s story even more powerful is her decision to shield her sons from the full reality of her diagnosis for years. According to personal accounts, she didn’t want Fernando or his brother Alberto to view her as a burden or be held back by worry. They were told she had an injury or mobility issue for many years before she eventually shared the truth about the MS diagnosis.
This protective instinct, rooted in love, shaped not just their family dynamic — it also became a defining part of Fernando’s character.
In a deeply personal letter published in The Players’ Tribune, Elsa wrote about how proud she was of her sons and how much she admired their support and love. Her words resonate far beyond sports headlines: “When you treat someone you love with respect and support no matter their challenges, you show what real strength is.”
MS: A Closer Look at the Disease Affecting Elsa Mendoza
Understanding Elsa’s illness helps explain why her story and her son’s tribute have touched so many.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
Multiple sclerosis is:
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An autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system attacks healthy tissue.
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A disease that targets the protective covering (myelin) of nerve fibers, disrupting nerve signals.
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A condition with no known cure, though there are treatments that can help manage symptoms and slow the disease’s progression.
Common MS Symptoms
Symptoms vary but can include:
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Fatigue
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Coordination and balance issues
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Muscle weakness or spasms
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Vision problems
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Numbness or tingling
These symptoms often fluctuate, with periods of relapse and remission. For Elsa, the disease has led to mobility challenges severe enough to require the use of a wheelchair.
The Impact of MS on the Mendoza Family
It’s one thing to understand the science behind MS — but quite another to see how it plays out in everyday life.
A Mother’s Strength
Despite her diagnosis and physical limitations, Elsa never stopped following her sons’ athletic pursuits. Whether it was watching games, offering advice, or simply being present, her influence runs deep. Fernando has said on multiple occasions that his mother’s resilience influences how he approaches challenges on and off the field.
Despite her condition, Elsa continues to:
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Attend important games.
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Cheer passionately from the sidelines.
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Stay involved in her sons’ lives with unwavering positivity.
A Source of Motivation
Fernando has been clear about his motivation: his mother’s courage gives him perspective. “When I feel tired or discouraged, I think about how hard she fights every day,” he shared in an emotional interview.
This attitude not only fuels his performance on the field but has shaped his leadership, humility, and dedication to causes bigger than football.
Using the Heisman Platform to Raise Awareness
Fernando Mendoza hasn’t just spoken about his mom — he’s taken meaningful action.
Fundraising Initiatives
Earlier in his college career at California, Mendoza collaborated with a local Berkeley restaurant to launch the “Mendoza Burrito,” with proceeds donated to the National MS Society. This helped raise awareness and funds for MS research.
After transferring to Indiana, he continued similar efforts by partnering with local eateries in Bloomington featuring signature menu items that direct a percentage of proceeds to support MS causes.
These efforts have rallied fans and community members alike — and serve as an inspiring example of how athletes can use their fame for good.
Heisman Night and the Emotional Tribute
When Fernando Mendoza was named the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, he didn’t just celebrate his personal achievement — he shared the spotlight with the woman who helped shape his journey.
In his acceptance speech, Mendoza dedicated the award to his mother, saying:
“Mommy, this is your trophy as much as it is mine. You’ve always been my biggest fan. You’re my light, you’re my why…”
His emotional words moved fans around the world and drew attention to Elsa’s battle with MS.
This moment was about so much more than athletic accolades — it was a public declaration of love, respect, and gratitude.
Lessons From Their Story
The bond between Fernando and Elsa Mendoza resonates for several reasons:
1. Strength Through Adversity
Elsa’s long battle with MS — and her refusal to let the disease define her — exemplifies resilience.
2. Family as an Anchor
Fernando often credits his mom for instilling values of hard work, faith, and positivity.
3. Turning Pain Into Purpose
Rather than hiding from his mom’s diagnosis, Mendoza has turned it into a platform to inspire others and contribute to meaningful causes like MS research and support.
FAQs
1. What disease does Fernando Mendoza’s mom have?
Fernando Mendoza’s mother, Elsa Mendoza, has multiple sclerosis (MS) — a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system and can lead to mobility challenges, balance problems, and a range of neurological symptoms.
2. How long has Elsa Mendoza been living with MS?
Elsa was diagnosed with MS in 2014, and the disease has progressed over the years, impacting her mobility and daily life.
3. Does MS have a cure?
Currently, there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but there are treatments available to help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
4. How has Fernando Mendoza supported MS awareness?
Fernando has launched fundraising and awareness campaigns, including partnerships with local restaurants that donate proceeds to the National MS Society, and uses his platform to speak publicly about the disease and his mother’s resilience.
5. How has Elsa influenced Fernando’s football career?
Mendoza often credits his mother’s strength, positivity, and perseverance with shaping his work ethic and mindset — motivating him to approach every challenge with resilience and gratitude.
Conclusion: A Story Beyond Football
Fernando Mendoza’s rise to the top of college football isn’t just about stats, wins, and trophies. It’s about family, resilience, and the human spirit. At the heart of his story is his mother’s courageous battle with multiple sclerosis — a battle that has touched not only his life but the lives of countless fans who see in their story a deeper message of love and perseverance.
By bringing attention to MS through his platform, Mendoza honors his mom’s struggle while inspiring others to find strength in their own challenges.
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