Shocking news Wednesday for South Carolina football fans, and college football fans everywhere. Former Gamecock quarterback Stephen Garcia has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer. The 38 year old Garcia has begun treatment, and his family has established a Go Fund Me account
Garcia was one of the all-time great quarterbacks at South Carolina. Playing for Steve Spurrier from 2008 until he was dismissed from the team midway through the 2011, Garcia passed for 7597 yards and 47 touchdowns, with 41 interceptions.
His best season was 2010 when he passed for 3059 yards and 20 touchdowns. That season he led the Gamecocks to a win over then #1 ranked Alabama, an SEC East title, a spot in the SEC Championship Game, and a berth in the Chick-fil-A Bowl.
Here is what Garcia’s family posted on his Go Fund Me page:
Support for Stephen Garcia’s Fight Against Cancer
The Diagnosis
Following a few days in the ER and a battery of tests—including MRIs, CT scans, and a difficult hospital stay—Stephen was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer.
The Fight Starts Now
Stephen is beginning chemotherapy today. His medical team is starting him on FOLFIRINOX, which confirms they are taking the most aggressive treatment path available to fight this. Following these initial rounds, he will be meeting with specialized liver and colon surgeons to determine the next steps in his treatment plan. Stephen’s entire focus is now dedicated to one thing: fighting this disease with everything he has.
Stand With Stephen
We are navigating a very difficult time. Every message of support and every contribution serves as a reminder to Stephen that he is not in this alone. We are incredibly grateful for the village helping him fight this battle.