Dolly Parton’s extensive record of charitable acts has been extensively documented, but a heartfelt tribute from her sister sheds light on the deep-rooted nature of her generosity.
Stella Parton recently shared on Instagram that she and Dolly used to start their Tuesdays by having early morning coffee together over the phone. In one of their final conversations, Dolly expressed her willingness to undergo experimental treatment even if her own situation seemed hopeless, with the sole purpose of potentially benefiting others in the future.
While CBC News sought confirmation from Dolly Parton’s publicist regarding her alleged receipt of experimental treatments towards the end of her life, no response has been provided yet.
However, Dolly’s significant contribution to medical progress is widely acknowledged. In November 2020, she made a $1 million donation to Nashville’s Vanderbilt University Medical Center for COVID-19 research, which also played a role in the development of the Moderna mRNA coronavirus vaccine.
In a notable gesture, Dolly received her initial vaccine dose on camera while playfully adapting the lyrics of her famous song “Jolene” to promote vaccination.
The administering doctor in the vaccination video, Dr. Naji Abumrad, became a close friend of Dolly’s since their first meeting at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2013, following a minor car accident involving Dolly. As highlighted in a recent opinion piece by Jad Abumrad in the New York Times, Dr. Naji Abumrad was by Dolly’s side during her final moments.
Stella Parton expressed her belief that the world truly witnessed the authentic generosity and kindness of her sister, calling Dolly one of the most compassionate and thoughtful individuals she has ever known. She encouraged others to follow Dolly’s example in making the world a better place.