In this September 13, 2026 episode, we talk with the founders of the McConnell Foundation, Josh and Jen McConnell, about their charity fundraising event, the "Shining Stars Gala," and how it benefits the same pediatric cancer research that saved their son Bodhi's life. Photo: 92.5 Kickin' Country
Lowcountry Forever – The McConnell Foundation – September 13, 2026
LOWCOUNTRY FOREVER – September 13, 2026
GUEST: Josh and Jen McConnell, Founders and Directors
ISSUE: Children’s Health/Cancer Research
When their young son was diagnosed with cancer, Josh and Jen McConnell immediately thought about where they would need to move to get him the best treatment. However, they soon found out it was close to home at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital. Following their son Bohdi’s successful treatment, they founded the McConnell Foundation as a way to give back to the hospital that saved their son. The Foundation’s largest fundraiser each year is their annual “Shining Stars Gala,” this year on September 19th. Josh McConnell explained the motivation for creating the foundation and the importance of the research being done at the Children’s Hospital. Jen McConnell provided the information on this year’s “Gala” and how much money they hoped to raise at this year’s 5th annual event.
Monday, October 19, 202610/19/2026
In this October 18, 2026 episode, Layla Luna, Founder and CEO of Just Bee, discusses her upcoming autism awareness event – themed around Arabian Nights – happening October 30th. See how you can get involved and make a difference.
Monday, October 19, 202610/19/2026
In this October 18, 2026 episode, we chat with Suzanne Auld, the Founder and Director of BarBrewGrass, a local non-profit, about their upcoming 10th annual festival of the same name. The festival takes place on Sunday, November 8th.
Monday, October 12, 202610/12/2026
In this October 11, 2026 episode, we discuss genealogy and history with Hester McFadden of the Liberty Hill Historical & Genealogical Society and Lori Johnson, President of the Lowcountry Gullah Geechee Chapter. The Sankofa Initiative aims to help bridge the gap between older and younger generations and to help the youth learn family history.
Monday, October 12, 202610/12/2026
In this October 11, 2026 episode, we speak to the Director of Development for Light from Light, Keely Telfer, about her organization and it’s upcoming event, set to showcase how Light from Light is making an impact on the people in Haiti.
Monday, October 5, 202610/05/2026
In this October 4, 2026 episode, we speak with Nicole Harvey and Tracy Richter from the Town of Mount Pleasant about the upcoming 38th Children’s Day Festival happening at the Park West Recreation Complex. Find out what’s happening, where it’s happening, and how to attend right here on Lowcountry Forever.
