COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCIV) — Former South Carolina quarterback and Gamecock fan favorite Stephen Garcia announced Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer.
Garcia, one of the most memorable figures in program history, shared the news on Facebook along with a GoFundMe page created to assist with treatment expenses.
“Wasn’t really looking forward to sharing this, but it is what it is,” Garcia wrote on Facebook. “We’ve got an incredible group of doctors and staff who believe we can beat this, and that’s the only mindset we’re going with. If there’s one takeaway from all of this, it’s to get checked out and never hesitate to go to the doctor when something feels off. So much of what we consume has changed over the years, and more people our age are being diagnosed with illnesses like this. We’ve got this, and I truly appreciate everyone’s support.”
According to details shared by Maria Garcia, Stephen’s diagnosis came after several days in the emergency room and multiple medical evaluations, including MRIs, CT scans and an especially difficult hospital stay.
He began chemotherapy treatment Wednesday. Doctors have started him on the aggressive “FOLFIRINOX” regimen as part of their plan to fight the disease. After completing the first rounds of treatment, Garcia is expected to meet with liver and colon specialists to evaluate the next phase of his care, according to Maria Garcia.
A LOOK BACK AT GARCIA’S CAREER
During his time at South Carolina from 2007-11, Garcia posted a 20-14 record as the Gamecocks’ starting quarterback. He threw for 7,507 yards and 41 touchdowns while also making an impact as a runner, totaling 777 rushing yards and 15 scores.
Garcia’s career was also marked by off-field issues. He was suspended five times during his college tenure and was ultimately dismissed from the football program midway through his final eligible season.
Coming out of high school in 2007, Garcia was considered one of the nation’s top recruits. In 2008, he started three games and earned SEC Freshman of the Week honors after throwing for 169 yards and a touchdown in one half during a 24-17 win over Kentucky.
By 2009, Garcia had settled into the starting role and delivered four 300-yard passing performances while helping South Carolina secure two victories over Top-25 teams. During his junior season in 2010, the Gamecocks finished 9-5, captured the SEC East title and ended the year ranked No. 22 in both the Associated Press and Coaches polls. Garcia threw for 3,059 yards with 20 touchdowns and 14 interceptions that season. However, his time with the program came to an end in 2011 when he was dismissed from the team.
Leave a Reply