Former South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer at just 38 years old.
Garcia shared the emotional news on social media, saying he and his medical team are determined to fight the disease.
“We have a great team of doctors that’s confident we can beat this. It’s the only option.”
He also urged others not to ignore warning signs and to seek medical care if something doesn’t feel right.
After several days of testing, including MRIs and CT scans, Garcia was diagnosed with advanced colorectal cancer. He has already begun aggressive FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy and will soon meet with liver and colon specialists to discuss the next stage of treatment.
Garcia starred at South Carolina from 2008–2011, throwing for 7,597 yards and 47 touchdowns, and famously led the Gamecocks to their historic upset of No. 1 Alabama in 2010.
His wife, Maria, launched a GoFundMe to help with medical expenses, which has already raised more than $127,000.
Supporters continue to rally behind Garcia as he begins the toughest fight of his life.