The Lonon Foundation (TLF) is proud to announce the return of Shuck Fest 2026, its signature annual fundraiser benefiting children and families navigating a parent or caregiver’s cancer diagnosis or cancer-related death.
Presented by Charleston Oncology, Jody and Chloe McAuley, and Baird, Shuck Fest will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 1–4 p.m. at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club. The annual waterfront oyster roast brings the Charleston community together for unlimited oysters, catering from Rosemary & Rye, live music, local beers, a silent auction, whiskey pull, and more—all in support of The Lonon Foundation’s UPLIFT Program.
And for college football fans, there’s no need to choose between Shuck Fest and game day: college football games will be playing throughout the event, so guests can catch the action while they shuck for a cause.
“Children experience a parent’s cancer diagnosis in their own unique way, and they need support that meets them where they are developmentally,” said Maddy Marshall, MS, CCLS, Executive Director of The Lonon Foundation. “Shuck Fest gives our community a really fun way to come together while making this specialized support possible. Every ticket helps us provide children and families with the tools, connection, and ongoing support they need during an incredibly difficult time.”
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
- Time: 1–4 p.m.
- Location: Isle of Palms Exchange Club
- Tickets: $75 General Admission, including unlimited oysters and chili, live music, and more
- Purchase Tickets: https://go.rallyup.com/
shuckfest2026/
More Than 7,000 Tri-County Children May Be Impacted
An estimated 2.85 million children in the United States are living with a parent who has been diagnosed with cancer.
Applying national prevalence estimates to current U.S. Census population data suggests that more than 44,000 children in South Carolina may be living with a parent who has been diagnosed with cancer. In Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties alone, more than 7,000 children may be living with a parent who has been diagnosed with cancer, including approximately 1,400 whose parent may be in the early phases of treatment and recovery.
For these children, a parent’s cancer can bring fear, uncertainty, changes in family routines and familial roles, and feelings of isolation.
“As someone who has spent many years working alongside patients and families affected by cancer, I believe this type of psychosocial support is an essential part of comprehensive cancer care,” said Maureen A. Melody, MBA, Vice President & Chief Executive Officer of Charleston Oncology. “Medical treatment addresses the disease, but organizations like The Lonon Foundation help care for the emotional well-being of the entire family. Their work provides comfort, connection, resilience, and a sense of normalcy during an extraordinarily difficult time.”
Through its UPLIFT Program, The Lonon Foundation provides families with individualized support from Certified Child Life Specialists, developmentally appropriate cancer education, therapeutic and expressive activities, and in-person and virtual peer programming at no cost to the family. Support is tailored to each family and can continue throughout diagnosis, treatment, palliative care, and bereavement.
Proceeds from Shuck Fest help make this year-round support possible and allow The Lonon Foundation to reach more children and families throughout the Lowcountry.