Former South Carolina QB Stephen Garcia Reveals Stage 4 Cancer Diagnosis in Emotional Post

Former South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia, 38, announced he was diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer.

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

"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.

"We got this and I appreciate all yall!"

While Garcia played in the CFL and AFL following his collegiate career, he is best known for his time with the Gamecocks.

He played under head coach Steve Spurrier from 2008 until 2011, notably leading the SEC in completions and attempts during the 2009 campaign. He completed 55.3 percent of his passes for 2,862 yards, 17 touchdowns and 10 interceptions that season before following up with bigger numbers in 2010.

Garcia completed 64.2 percent of his passes for 3,059 yards, 20 touchdowns and 14 interceptions while adding six touchdowns on the ground as a runner in 2010.

South Carolina reached the SEC Championship Game that season thanks in large part to a stunning win over then-No. 1 Alabama. Garcia threw for three touchdowns in the victory over the Crimson Tide.

While the Gamecocks lost to Auburn in that SEC title game, it was a memorable season that also included road wins over Florida and archrival Clemson.