Fernando Mendoza's mother, Elsa Mendoza, has been living with multiple sclerosis (MS), a degenerative condition diagnosed over 15 years ago that now requires her to use a wheelchair.

Elsa's MS Journey

Elsa Mendoza, a former University of Miami tennis player and mother of Cuban immigrants, was diagnosed with MS around 18 years ago, which disrupts brain- body communication and affects nearly 1 million Americans, mostly women. Despite travel challenges and progression confining her to a wheelchair, she remains a constant presence at son Fernando's Indiana Hoosiers games, including the Big Ten win, College Football Playoff run, and the January 19, 2026, national championship victory over Miami (27-21). Fernando credits her "unwavering optimism," daily determination, and role teaching him to throw a football as his biggest inspiration, often tearing up in postgame hugs.

Emotional Highlights

  • Heisman Speech : Fernando dedicated his 2025 Heisman Trophy acceptance to Elsa after her heartfelt Players' Tribune letter, "Dear Fernando," praising his gentleness amid her worsening condition.
  • Championship Moment : Post-title game in Miami, he shared a viral, tearful embrace with wheelchair-bound Elsa and family; dad Fernando Sr. always sits by her side, even skipping standing celebrations.
  • Family Support : Brother Alberto (backup QB) and dad (ex-Columbus High player, now physician) join her; she's called his "very first teammate" from her Boston pregnancy days.

Fernando's Response

Fernando launched Mendozarito restaurant and raised $150K+ for MS research via fundraisers in Miami and Bloomington. He told Hoosiers Connect her grit motivates workouts: "If I'm fatigued... I remember Mom's effort and positivity." Elsa called the championship "overwhelming numbness," cherishing hugs knowing his hard work.

Recent Buzz

Trending since Indiana's Cinderella playoff run, forums and social clips highlight Elsa's joy at the January 19 game, her funny quip on Fernando's TD run, and wise post-win advice. No reports of acute incidents—just her ongoing MS battle amid family's triumphs.

TL;DR : Nothing tragic "happened"—Elsa battles MS in a wheelchair but inspires Heisman winner Fernando through championships and daily resilience.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.