Former South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Stephen Garcia, 38, has revealed he has been diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer and is urging people to get checked if something feels wrong. His wife Maria has started a GoFundMe, which has already raised over $127,000 to help with medical costs.
Garcia shared on Instagram that he is receiving treatment and remains determined to fight the disease, adding a warning about rising cases in younger adults and the importance of early medical screening.
A standout quarterback for the Gamecocks from 2008–2011, Garcia threw for 7,597 yards and 47 touchdowns, including leading South Carolina to a major upset over No. 1 Alabama in 2010. He was later dismissed in 2011 due to off-field issues but went on to play briefly in the CFL and AFL before becoming a private coach.
According to his fundraiser, he is currently undergoing aggressive chemotherapy (FOLFIRINOX) and working with specialists as he continues treatment.