WE ARE SOLD OUT FOR OUR 2026 SHINING STARS GALA! 🤩

🌴 A Night of Purpose in Paradise

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Shining Stars Gala: Palm Royale — Paradise with a Purpose, where timeless Palm Beach elegance meets heartfelt impact.

This black-tie celebration honors children bravely battling cancer while raising critical funds for groundbreaking pediatric cancer research at MUSC.

Set against the coastal beauty of the Sweetgrass Inn at Wild Dunes Resort, guests will step into a refined atmosphere of warm breezes, polished glamour, and meaningful philanthropy.

✨ The Evening Includes:

🎶 Live DJ & Dancing
Celebrate in style with an energetic dance floor and curated entertainment throughout the evening.

🍽️ Gourmet Dinner & Signature Cocktails
Enjoy a thoughtfully designed culinary experience paired with premium wines and specialty cocktails.

🎁 Live & Silent Auctions
Bid on luxury experiences, exclusive travel, fine jewelry, and one-of-a-kind packages.

💛 Stories of Impact
Hear powerful stories from families and physicians whose lives have been transformed by pediatric cancer research.
 

🌊 Make It a Getaway

We’re excited to offer a special room block for Shining Stars Gala guests at the beautiful Sweetgrass Inn and Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort. Discounted guestroom rates start at $309++ per night (inclusive of the resort fee), with a one-night minimum stay required. Guests may also extend their stay up to two nights before or after the event, based on availability. Reservations must be made by August 21, 2026. To reserve your room, please use our dedicated booking link below or call the Wild Dunes reservations team at 866-359-5593 (Option #2) between 8 AM–6 PM EST daily.

Click here to book your stay.

🌟 Why It Matters

Born from our son Bodhi’s fight and miraculous cancer-free journey, The McConnell Foundation exists to give other children the same chance at life. What began as one family’s gratitude has grown into a powerful movement — raising over $275,000 for pediatric cancer research at MUSC and funding breakthroughs that are changing outcomes for children across South Carolina.

100% of event proceeds directly fund pediatric cancer research initiatives at MUSC, helping advance treatments that improve survival rates for children right here in South Carolina and beyond.

🎗️ The Bell That Started It All

🎥 See Why This Night Matters — Watch Past Gala Highlights

🌟 Sponsorships
Pediatric cancer remains critically underfunded, receiving only a small fraction of national cancer research dollars. The Shining Stars Sea-lestial Gala raises vital funds for Dr. Jacqueline Kraveka’s pediatric cancer research at MUSC, one of the only labs in South Carolina dedicated to childhood cancer.

Sponsorships make this life-saving research possible, fueling breakthroughs and giving hope to families facing the unimaginable. Join us in the fight—become a sponsor today. Secure your spot today by emailing Hope@TheMcConnellFoundation.com and be part of something truly special.