Quarterback Fernando Mendoza is in the spotlight as he leads Indiana University to a Big Ten championship and a top seed in the College Football Playoff. His impressive season includes a completion rate of over 71%, amassing 2,980 yards, with a national-leading 33 touchdown passes and only six interceptions. Mendoza also contributed significantly on the ground, adding another 240 yards and six rushing touchdowns, solidifying his status as the favorite to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy.
Mendoza’s journey to this point has been marked by his transfer from Cal, influenced by his brother’s experience under head coach Curt Cignetti at Indiana. In a heartfelt letter published in the Players’ Tribune, his mother, Elsa Mendoza, reflected on this pivotal decision. She acknowledged her son’s connection to Cal, but emphasized that his aspirations for a professional football career drove the move to Indiana. “You’re a true ‘Golden Bear,’ with the amazing degree to prove it,” she wrote, while also highlighting the importance of pursuing his goal of reaching the NFL.
Elsa Mendoza’s Health Journey
In her touching piece, Elsa opened up about her long battle with multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disorder that affects the nervous system, as detailed by the Mayo Clinic. Diagnosed 18 years ago, she initially chose not to disclose her condition to her sons, believing she was managing well. This changed after a skiing accident ten years ago led to a broken ankle and persistent knee issues. “Even after that, I wasn’t quite ready to tell you,” she recalled.
The situation worsened after she contracted COVID-19 five years ago, which prompted her to finally have a candid conversation with her sons. “No amount of years could have prepared me for how hard of a conversation it ended up being,” she explained. In the days leading up to the Heisman ceremony, she revealed her health struggles to them, stating, “Your mom has this degenerative disease… but it won’t affect us in the ways that matter. We’ll have each other, and love each other, and be there for each other. I promise.”
Elsa expressed her admiration for Fernando, not just for his football achievements but for his unwavering support during her health challenges. “No matter what kind of state I’ve been in… you’ve never once looked away,” she wrote. Her words highlighted the deep bond they share, illustrating how, despite her condition deteriorating, Fernando continues to see her as the same person he has always known.
As the Heisman Trophy ceremony approaches, Fernando Mendoza’s remarkable athletic accomplishments are accompanied by a profound personal narrative of resilience and family support. His mother’s openness about her health challenges adds a layer of depth to the celebration of his success, underscoring the importance of family and the strength derived from unconditional love.