Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza opened up about his mother, Elsa’s, battle with multiple sclerosis in a social media video to raise awareness about MS.

He talked about his journey and reflected on his mother’s struggle with the disease. He called her his “reason” to keep pushing every single day.

“March is MS Awareness Month, and this cause is very personal to me,” Mendoza said. “My mom battles multiple sclerosis, and watching her face it with strength and optimism has shaped who I am today. She is my why and the reason I keep pushing every single day.

Mendoza is raising funds for the National MS Society to spread awareness.

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“Over the last year, the support you all have shown my family has meant everything to me,” Mendoza said. “We’re continuing to raise funds for the National MS Society, and I’m so grateful for everyone who has already donated to the cause.

“If you’d like to be a part of it, you can visit my fundraising page in the link in my bio, where you can donate and help us spread awareness for MS. Hopefully, one day we can find a cure.”

Fernando Mendoza’s mother was diagnosed with MS about 18 years ago. The Hoosiers quarterback shares a strong bond with his mother, and she is his “inspiration” and best friend. His mother is a former tennis star and played for the University of Miami.

Also Read: Dan Orlovsky snubs Fernando Mendoza while naming Notre Dame star as best prospect in 2026 NFL Draft

Fernando Mendoza opens up about his chat with Tom Brady

Fernando Mendoza is the top prospect for the 2026 NFL draft. On Friday, he had a formal interview with the Las Vegas Raiders and could be their pick in the upcoming draft.

He also talked with Tom Brady, a minority owner of the Raiders, during the interview by phone. While talking to the media last week, Mendoza opened up about his conversation with the NFL icon.

“I was able to say a brief hi on the phone to Brady. That was very special to me,” Mendoza said. “Look forward to meeting him in person, hopefully, one day, and learning from him.”

Mendoza had an impressive college season. After spending two seasons with the California Golden Bears, he played for the Indiana Hoosiers in 2025 and recorded 3,535 passing yards.

Also Read: “PR speech 99 overall” “This isn’t media training”: NFL fans react as Fernando Mendoza addresses possibility of not going 1st overall in 2026 Draft