Dolly Parton’s extensive history of charitable acts has been well-documented, but a heartfelt tribute from her sister sheds light on the deep-rooted spirit of generosity within her. Stella Parton shared on Instagram that she and Dolly used to start their Tuesdays by enjoying coffee together over the phone.
In one of their last conversations, Dolly expressed to Stella her willingness to undergo experimental treatments if there was no hope for her, with the intention of benefiting future generations. Despite inquiries from CBC News about potential experimental treatment towards the end of Dolly’s life, her publicist has not responded.
Although details about Dolly’s medical treatment remain undisclosed, her significant contribution to medical progress is widely acknowledged. In November 2020, it was revealed that she made a generous $1-million donation to Nashville’s Vanderbilt University Medical Center for COVID-19 research, which played a role in the development of the Moderna mRNA coronavirus vaccine.
Dolly’s commitment to healthcare extended to her public vaccination for COVID-19, where she sang modified lyrics to her hit song “Jolene” while receiving the vaccine. The administering doctor, Dr. Naji Abumrad, whom she met in 2013 after a minor car accident at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, shared a close bond with her until her final moments, as disclosed by his son in a recent New York Times opinion piece.
Stella Parton’s tribute emphasized Dolly’s remarkable generosity, kindness, and thoughtfulness, urging others to emulate her positive impact on the world.