Heisman Winner Fernando Mendoza Honors Mom with MS in Heartfelt Tribute
UPDATE: Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza delivered an emotional tribute to his mother, Elsa Mendoza, during his acceptance speech on December 13, 2025. Elsa, who has been battling multiple sclerosis for nearly two decades, continues to inspire her son and the community as he leads the Indiana Hoosiers in the Rose Bowl against Alabama today, January 1, 2026.
As the game unfolds, fans and supporters are reminded of Elsa’s resilience. She wrote a touching letter to her son published in The Players’ Tribune just before the Heisman ceremony. In her heartfelt message, she expressed her pride and support, stating, “You’re my life. You’re my why. You’ve always been my biggest supporter.”
Elsa Mendoza, a former tennis player at the University of Miami, uses a wheelchair due to the progression of her illness, which worsened significantly after she contracted COVID-19 five years ago. Her two sons, Fernando and Alberto Mendoza, are both quarterbacks for Indiana football and have been actively raising funds to fight multiple sclerosis, showcasing their commitment to their mother and the cause.
Fernando’s emotional Heisman acceptance speech resonated with many, as he declared, “Mommy, this is your trophy as much as it is mine. Your sacrifices, courage, love, my first playbook, my playbook I’m going to carry through my side my entire life.”
The Mendoza family story is not just about sports; it’s a powerful narrative of love, resilience, and hope. Fernando, who was born in Boston and raised in Miami, emphasized the lessons he learned from his mother about strength and perseverance. He stated, “Together, you and I are rewriting what people think is possible. I love you.”
As the clock ticks down in the Rose Bowl, the Mendoza family’s journey captivates fans across the nation. This game is more than just a competition; it symbolizes the fight against adversity and the power of family support.
Stay tuned for further updates on this inspiring story and the outcome of the Rose Bowl. For more on the Hoosiers and their remarkable season, subscribe to IndyStar’s Hoosiers newsletter and listen to the Mind Your Banners podcast on popular platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
