Heidi Russo is the biological mother of Colin Kaepernick. She gave birth to Colin at the age of 19 years. Due to the challenges of motherhood at a young age, she put Colin up for adoption. Over the years, she has continuously tried to reconnect with her son but he denied it.
Heidi Russo is famously known as the biological mother of NFL star Colin Kaepernick.
Her fame arose from her connection to Kaepernick, who gained widespread attention for his activism against racial injustice and police brutality by kneeling during the national anthem.
Russo’s story intersects with Kaepernick’s, adding a layer of personal narrative to his public image.
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Quick Bio
| Full Name | Heidi Russo |
| Gender | Female |
| Date of Birth | January 1, 1969 |
| Place Of Birth | United States |
| Age | 55 Years |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Famous For | Colin Kaepernick’s Biological Mother |
| Parents | James & Phyllis Zabranzky |
| Siblings | N\A |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Heath Russo |
| Children | 4 |
| Profession | Nurse & Founder Of Advocacy Group |
| Net Worth | N\A |
Heidi Russo’s Early Life & Background
Heidi Russo was born in the United States on 1st January 1969, making her around 55 years old as of 2024.
Her zodiac sign is Capricorn, characterized by traits such as ambition, determination, and practicality. As for her ethnicity, Heidi Russo is white, and she holds American nationality.
While not much detailed information is available about her early life, she gained attention for being the biological mother of NFL player Colin Kaepernick.
She made the decision to give Colin up for adoption shortly after his birth, and over the years, she has attempted to reconnect with him, though Colin has chosen not to pursue a relationship with her.
Heidi Russo’s Educational Background
Heidi Russo’s educational background is not publicly available. She completed her nursing degree after giving Colin Kaepernick up for adoption. However, specific details about her academic history beyond that are not known.
What Does Heidi Russo’s Do?
Heidi Russo, Colin Kaepernick’s biological mother, is a licensed nurse and co-founded an advocacy group called “Linked Thru Love.”
She resides in Denver, Colorado, and actively works to dispel myths about adoption while advocating for birth mothers’ rights.
Russo’s involvement reflects her commitment to supporting birth mothers and addressing misconceptions surrounding adoption.
Heidi Russo’s Parents & Siblings
There is limited information available about Heidi Russo’s parents and siblings. She was born to James and Phyllis Zabranzky.
Beyond this, details about her siblings or extended family are not readily accessible in the provided sources. Russo’s focus in public discussions tends to center around her relationship with her son, Colin Kaepernick.
Heidi Russo Gave Birth To Colin At The Age Of 19
Heidi Russo’s journey to motherhood began during her teenage years when she found herself in a relationship with an African-American man.
However, the relationship took a heartbreaking turn when he abandoned her upon learning of her pregnancy. At just 19 years old, Heidi faced the daunting prospect of single motherhood.
Who Is Colin Kaepernick?
Colin Kaepernick is a former NFL quarterback known for his activism and athletic prowess.
Born on November 3, 1987, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kaepernick was adopted by Rick and Teresa Kaepernick.
He rose to fame while playing for the San Francisco 49ers, leading them to Super Bowl XLVII in 2013.
Kaepernick gained widespread attention for kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial inequality and police brutality.
Beyond football, he’s involved in social justice initiatives and philanthropy. Despite facing controversy and backlash, Kaepernick remains an influential figure advocating for change and equality in society.
Why Did Heidi Russo Put Colin For Adoption?
Faced with the challenges ahead and feeling uncertain about her ability to provide the life she wanted for her child, Heidi made the difficult decision to give her son up for adoption.
On November 3, 1987, she gave birth to her son, Colin Kaepernick, knowing that another family would provide him with the opportunities she feared she couldn’t offer.
Rick and Teresa Kaepernick, who had tragically lost two children to heart defects, welcomed Colin into their family with open arms.
Despite already having two children of their own, they felt compelled to adopt Colin, giving him the love and stability he deserved.
Heidi Russo Has Tried To Reconnect With Colin Kaepernick
Heidi Russo attempted to reconnect with Colin Kaepernick after he rose to fame as an NFL quarterback.
Despite expressing her desire to meet him, Kaepernick has chosen not to reunite with his biological mother.
Russo’s efforts to establish contact have been met with dismissal, as Kaepernick remains unresponsive to her attempts.
Their relationship remains strained, with Kaepernick maintaining his distance from Russo.
Why Do Colin Kaepernick Not Reconnect With Heidi Russo?
Colin Kaepernick has chosen not to reconnect with Heidi Russo despite her efforts.
His strong bond with his adoptive family and his focus on his career play a significant role.
Kaepernick’s loyalty to Rick and Teresa Kaepernick, who raised him, shapes his decision.
While Russo expresses a desire to reconnect, Kaepernick’s choice emphasizes his commitment to his adoptive parents and personal priorities.
Heidi Russo Critisized Colin Kaepernick On Twitter
Heidi Russo criticized Colin Kaepernick for his protest during the national anthem, viewing it as disrespectful to the country and his family. Despite giving him up for adoption, she felt his actions brought shame.
Russo publicly expressed her disapproval on Twitter, urging Kaepernick to seek change through other means and to respect the blessings he received.
Is Heidi Russo Married?
Heidi Russo is married to Heath Russo. She resides in Denver, Colorado, with their three children. Despite her separation from her biological son, Colin Kaepernick, Russo prioritizes her family life.
While she has expressed a desire to reconnect with Kaepernick, she remains dedicated to her role as a wife and mother, focusing on nurturing her relationship with her husband and children.
Is Heidi Russo Active On Social Media?
Heidi Russo is active on social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter. On Instagram, she goes by the handle @heidirn1 and shares photos and videos with her followers.
Similarly, on Twitter, she can be found under the username @heidirn1, where she engages in discussions and shares updates.
Through these platforms, Russo remains connected with her audience and continues to share aspects of her life.
Heidi Russo also actively engaged with Colin Kaepernick on social media, particularly on Twitter.
Despite their lack of direct interaction, Russo has publicly expressed her desire to reconnect with her son, often posting messages directed at him.
Heidi Russo’s Net Worth In 2024
As of 2024, Heidi Russo’s net worth is not publicly available or widely reported. However, her son, Colin Kaepernick’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million, as of 2024.
