Dolly Parton’s extensive history of charitable deeds has been extensively recorded, and a heartfelt homage from her sister sheds light on the deep-rooted nature of her altruism.
Stella Parton shared on Instagram that she and Dolly used to start their Tuesdays early by having coffee together over the phone. In one of their last conversations, Dolly expressed her willingness to undergo experimental treatments even if there was no hope for her, all in the hope of benefiting future patients.
While CBC News reached out to Dolly Parton’s publicist for confirmation on whether Dolly underwent experimental treatment towards the end of her life, no response has been received. Nevertheless, Dolly’s noteworthy contribution to recent medical progress is widely recognized.
In November 2020, it was disclosed that she donated $1 million to Nashville’s Vanderbilt University Medical Center for COVID-19 research, with a portion allocated to the development of the Moderna mRNA coronavirus vaccine. When she received her first vaccine dose, she did so on camera, playfully singing modified lyrics to her song “Jolene.”
Dr. Naji Abumrad, the physician who administered her vaccine, initially met Dolly at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in October 2013 following a minor car accident. Their encounter led to a lasting friendship, with Dr. Abumrad reportedly being by Dolly’s side in her final moments, as shared in a recent opinion piece by his son, Jad Abumrad, in The New York Times.
Stella Parton expressed her admiration for her sister, describing Dolly as one of the most generous, thoughtful, and kind individuals she has ever known. She emphasized Dolly’s positive impact on the world and encouraged others to emulate her example of kindness and generosity.