Sports

Former College Football Star Stephen Garcia Has Stage 4 Cancer

The college football world received devastating news this Wednesday involving former South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia.

Garcia announced that he's been diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer. His wife launched a GoFundMe in an effort to support his recovery process. As of this moment, a little over $12,000 has been raised for Garcia.

"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," she wrote for his GoFundMe page.

"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."

 Sep 24, 2011; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Stephen Garcia (5) scrambles against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the third quarter at Williams Brice Stadium. The Gamecocks defeated the Commodores, 21-3. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 24, 2011; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Stephen Garcia (5) scrambles against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the third quarter at Williams Brice Stadium. The Gamecocks defeated the Commodores, 21-3. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports © Jeremy Brevard-Imagn Images.

South Carolina fans rallying around Stephen Garcia.

Garcia played for the Gamecocks from 2008-2011, completing 57.7% of his passes for 7,597 yards with 47 touchdowns and 41 interceptions. He also had 777 rushing yards and 15 scores on 329 attempts.

As you'd imagine, South Carolina fans are keeping Garcia in their prayers.

"Praying for you and all your family. You got this my friend! Sending love, hugs and prayers to my all time favorite qb," one person wrote on Facebook.

"You got this 5! Garnet and Black nation is praying for you," a fan commented.

"Oh gosh I'm sorry you're going through it. We will be praying for you and your family! Stay positive, you got this," another fan said.

We're wishing Garcia a full and speedy recovery.

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This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 1:14 PM.

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