Fernando Mendoza Thanks #1 Fan, His Mom With MS, For His Dream Season: ‘My Love For Her Is Unconditional’

The Indiana Hoosiers are national champions for the first time in school history after an unfathomable program turnaround, led by Heisman quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Mendoza had one of the greatest seasons of all time, accomplishment-wise, but his “why” gives him the strength to go out there and be great every time he steps onto that field. Elsa Mendoza, Fernando’s mother, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 18 years ago. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the protective coating of the nerves in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.

Elsa’s diagnosis worsened during 2020 when she contracted Covid-19. Traveling has been difficult for the Mendoza family because Elsa uses a wheelchair, but she was, without a doubt, the biggest fan and made sure to never miss a game. With the National Championship in Miami, their hometown, the trip was easier and more special for them.

When Fernando accepted the Heisman, he said, “My love for her is unconditional,” tears running down his face. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as his mom is truly his rock.

Elsa should be nothing but proud of her son, as he exemplifies excellence on and off the field through how he carries himself and what he has accomplished. The presumptive number one overall pick in the upcoming draft led only the second team ever to go 16-0 in a season.

Fernando has started a fundraiser that has reached over $160,000 for MS research, programs, and services to help fight this disease that affects so many lives.