05/26/2026
Stephen Garcia spent years fighting on the football field.
Now, at 38, the former University of South Carolina quarterback and Jefferson High School alumni, is facing a different kind of battle, stage 4 colon cancer.
When symptoms like unexplained weight loss and changes in bowel habits appeared, he waited months before seeing a doctor. Today, he hopes sharing his story encourages others to listen to their bodies and get checked sooner.
Now undergoing treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center, Stephen is leaning on the same resilience that defined his athletic career, along with the support of his wife, family and community.
As colon cancer rates continue to rise in younger adults, experts emphasize that symptoms like re**al bleeding, abdominal pain, weight loss or persistent changes in bowel habits should never be ignored.
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Read Stephen's story: https://bit.ly/42PvNcU