Dolly Parton’s extensive record of charity work is widely acknowledged, and a heartfelt message from her sister sheds light on the depth of her generosity. Stella Parton shared on Instagram that she and Dolly used to have early morning phone calls every Tuesday while enjoying coffee together.
During one of their last conversations, Dolly expressed her willingness to undergo experimental treatment even if there was no hope for her, with the intention of benefitting future patients. When asked about Dolly’s medical care towards the end of her life, her publicist did not provide a response to CBC News.
Although details about Dolly’s possible experimental treatment remain unconfirmed, her significant contribution to COVID-19 research is well-documented. In 2020, Dolly donated $1 million to Nashville’s Vanderbilt University Medical Center, part of which supported the development of the Moderna mRNA coronavirus vaccine.
Dolly captured public attention when she received her first vaccine dose on camera, humorously singing altered lyrics to her famous song “Jolene.” Dr. Naji Abumrad, who administered her vaccine, had previously met Dolly at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2013 after she was in a minor car accident. Their acquaintance grew into a lasting friendship, with Dr. Abumrad reportedly by Dolly’s side in her final moments.
Stella Parton praised her sister’s genuine nature, describing her as an exceptionally kind and generous individual. She urged others to emulate Dolly’s legacy of making the world a better place through compassion and generosity.