Why Fernando Mendoza's mom is in a wheelchair

Why Fernando Mendoza's mom is in a wheelchair originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Fernando Mendoza's mom has supported him every step of the way.

Elsa Mendoza is her son's biggest fan, and along with his father, was there every step of the way as the Indiana Hoosiers made a run to the national title and Fernando won the Heisman Trophy.

Mendoza is heading to the NFL now, the expected No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Elsa is a former college athlete herself, and she's an inspiration to her son.

"Your sacrifices, courage and love, those have been my first playbook and the playbook I’m going to carry by my side throughout my entire life," Mendoza said during his Heisman Trophy speech. "You taught me that toughness doesn’t need to be loud. It can be quiet and strong."

Raiders fans will notice that Elsa is in a wheelchair, but she hasn't let that define her story.

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Why is Fernando Mendoza's mom Elsa in a wheelchair?

Elsa Mendoza has battled multiple sclerosis since 2007.

Elsa wrote about the diagnosis in a Players' Tribune article. She didn't want to tell her sons about it, but she eventually felt that she had no choice.