For Indiana Hoosiers quarterbacks Fernando and Alberto Mendoza, football is about more than wins and touchdowns. It's about honoring their mother, Elsa, who has been battling multiple sclerosis for the past decade.
A Mother's Unwavering Strength
"She battles it every single day, and she is my light and inspiration because no matter what, no matter how hard it gets, she always maintains this unwavering positivity and influence in our lives," Fernando shared in a recent interview.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease affecting the central nervous system, presenting daily challenges for millions. Despite these obstacles, Elsa remains her sons' biggest supporter and inspiration.
The Journey
The Big Ten Network recently profiled the Mendoza family in their documentary series "The Journey," showcasing the brothers' inseparable bond with their mother and how her courage motivates them every single day.
Watch the full Big Ten Network feature:
Turning Inspiration Into Action
The brothers have channeled their mother's courage into meaningful advocacy work, creating fundraising initiatives at every stop in their football journey:
The Mendoza Bros. Burger at Indiana
When Fernando transferred to Indiana, he made a vow to continue doing good for the community and his mother's cause. He and Alberto partnered with BuffaLouie's at The Gables in Bloomington to create the "Mendoza Bros. Burger"—a Cuban-style burger inspired by their heritage, with proceeds supporting MS awareness and research.
"It gives awareness, and we're really proud of it," Fernando said. "She's invested so much time and love into us, and it's only right that I'm able to give back to her and my family one day.
Recognition for Service
Fernando's commitment to community service earned him a nomination for the 2025 Allstate/AFCA Good Works Team, an honor recognizing college football student-athletes who go above and beyond off the field.
Perspective That Matters
Fernando often speaks about how his mother's battle with MS gives him perspective that extends far beyond football.
"She's my example of always having that positivity and always having the optimistic approach," Fernando explained. "If I have a bad game or a bad practice, I'm not going to go out there and pout because I see how hard she's fighting and how hard she always maintains the optimistic approach."
"If I have a bad game or a bad practice, I'm not going to go out there and pout because I see how hard she's fighting." ❤️
— Big Noon Kickoff (@BNKonFOX) October 25, 2025
Tom Rindaldi spoke with @IndianaFootball QB Fernando Mendoza about his mom's battle with MS and how she inspires him to keep going on and off the field. pic.twitter.com/ZIkN9oU2qY
This mindset has helped Fernando become not just a talented quarterback, but a mature leader who understands the game is about something bigger than statistics.
A Brother's Bond
The Mendoza story is also about family unity. When Fernando transferred to Indiana, it wasn't just about football—it was about being with his brother Alberto and continuing their mission together.
"My main goal was to become the best Fernando Mendoza quarterback that I could become, and seeing [my brother] Alberto progress so much in one year, I was like, 'this guy made a jump in one year that it took me maybe two or even three years to make,'" Fernando explained.
This past season, Fernando watched as Alberto entered the game against UCLA and scored his first collegiate touchdown—a moment that captured what this journey is truly about: family.
How You Can Help
The Mendoza brothers continue their fight against MS through ongoing initiatives where every contribution makes a difference:
Donate to Fernando's MS Fundraiser
Support MS research and programs for those living with the disease through Fernando's National MS Society fundraising page:
Shop the Mendoza Mania Collection
Campus Ink's exclusive "Mendoza Mania x MS Society" collection features apparel celebrating both brothers, with 20% of all sales donated directly to Fernando's National MS Society fundraiser: