Former South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback updated his fans on a major medical concern he has been facing recently.

The 38-year-old Stephen Garcia posted on his Facebook on May 6, revealing that he has been battling Stage 4 colorectal cancer.

“Wasn’t overly excited to share this news but it is what it is. We have a great team of doctors and staff that’s confident we can beat this! It’s the only option,” he wrote.

He also warned everyone about ultra-processed foods, PFAS, and microplastics that have been impacting people in their late thirties, and suggested getting checked if any symptoms or signs occur.

“If there’s one lesson to be learned, get checked and don’t be afraid to visit the doctors office when you don’t feel 100%. The stuff we consume has been altered significantly over the years and we’ve been hearing more and more people in this age range are getting diagnosed with these things,” he further wrote.

Garcia also mentioned a book on Navy Seals, titled No Easy Day, which had inspired him to deal with things one day at a time. He called it "just another battle", adding that he was "built for this kind of an operation."

Overall, it seems Garcia is optimistic and is maintaining a positive outlook while fighting the disease and all that comes with its treatment. He ended the post with a heartfelt appreciation for his fans.

“We got this and I appreciate all yall!” Garcia concluded.

The post also included a GoFundMe page set up by his wife, Maria Garcia, to help fight and beat the cancer.

Along with photos of Stephen Garcia through the years and in the hospital, the page also included details about “the most aggressive treatment path” available to defeat the cancer, which has been recommended for Garcia.

Stephen Garcia’s Journey Through The CFL And The AFL

After Stephen Garcia arrived at the University of South Carolina, he got to work, earning SEC Freshman of the Week honors after a 24–17 win over Kentucky.

He made strong progress through his junior year, throwing for 3,059 yards and 20 touchdowns. He also added 222 rushing yards and 6 rushing touchdowns to his record.

Although he went undrafted in the 2012 NFL Draft, he later made the jump to the CFL, signing a three-year deal with the Montreal Alouettes. His stint there was short-lived and he was released from the team in 2013.

However, Garcia didn’t give up on his football career just yet. He went on to join the AFL’s Tampa Bay Storm in 2014. He was also signed by the Birmingham Iron in the AAF in 2018, but was not selected to be protected in the AAF quarterback draft.

Now, he works as a quarterback coach in the Tampa Bay area, training young QBs.

Read more at Quarter Back Central!

Written by

Monika Khatai

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit