On Wednesday, former South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia shared the difficult news on social media that he has been diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer.
“Wasn’t overly excited to share this news but it is what it is,” Garcia wrote on Facebook. “We have a great team of doctors and staff that’s confident we can beat this! It’s the only option.”
The 38-year-old revealed the news in hopes of raising awareness about the cancer and to encourage early detection. His wife set up a GoFundMe campaign to support his treatment, already raising more than $166,000. He has already started chemotherapy.
“The amount of support has been extremely humbling. … I had the first round of chemo yesterday. I’m hoping like hell I can keep this [hair] as long as possible. But if it’s gotta go, it’s gotta go,” Garcia said in a video on X (formerly Twitter) Thursday.
“I thank you so much for your thoughts, prayers, donations, calls, texts. … I do just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Garcia added. “My wife thanks you from the bottom of her heart, my kids, my family, everybody. Continue on the support, and we’ll keep you updated. And if you’re feeling off, please get checked [for colon cancer].”
On Thursday, Garcia shared in a post on X a screen shot of an encouraging, heartfelt text message he received from Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney, who reached out to show his support:
“Hey man. This is Dabo Swinney
“Just wanted to let you know I prayed for you today and your family. I know you will keep the faith, stay strong and attack this the same way you attacked every defense you ever saw. You are a winner and you will win this too. Let me know if I can help you or your family in any way
“God Bless you!”
Garcia really appreciates the message from Swinney and others who’ve reached out.
“I mean this is a crazy situation and I am just beyond words of how thankful I am for these folks to take time and send such a REAL message. Thank you coach Swinney #quarterbackyourhealth” Garcia wrote on X.
Garcia played for the Gamecocks from 2008-11, when he threw for 7,597 yards and 47 touchdowns across 40 career games. He is third all-time at South Carolina in passing yards.
TCI certainly sends our thoughts and prayers to him and his family.