The Wellness Files with Kari Beal
Published on Sep 9, 2026, 10:01:21 AM
Total time: 00:24:58
Former South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia discusses his battle with Stage 4 colorectal cancer. Stephen shares his aggressive treatment journey, the incredible news of a 99.8% reduction in tumor DNA, and why he launched his new nonprofit to advocate for early screening and detection.
00:00 - intro
01:08 - Explaining Signatera blood scans & tumor shrinkage
02:15 - Interview intro: South Carolina legend Stephen Garcia
02:47 - Finding the cancer: symptoms, ultrasound, & biopsy
04:20 - Hearing the diagnosis & establishing a treatment plan
05:42 - Telling the kids: navigating the news with family
07:31 - Undergoing aggressive chemotherapy & pelvic radiation
09:45 - Upcoming surgery & the power of family support
10:40 - Tumor reduction results & saving the liver
13:36 - Differing medical opinions & choosing TGH
14:27 - How athletic training built a resilient mindset
15:12 - Surprise support from Dabo Swinney & Darius Rucker
16:43 - Launching the "Quarterback Your Health" nonprofit
https://quarterbackyourhealth.store/
17:55 - Why men must stop brushing off symptoms
19:10 - Tough days: managing embarrassing physical side effects
22:17 - Crucial advice for others: "Listen to your body"
23:33 - Furman University live event announcement (September 30th)
Event details: https://www.furman.edu/academics/cultural-life-program/upcoming-clp-events/?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D1433290230
The Wellness Files is a health-focused podcast where we explore practical tools, research and real patient stories. We hope to inform, inspire, and connect to audiences so you can be the best version of yourself, while also asking tough questions about safety and effectiveness.