Dolly Parton’s extensive record of charitable acts has been widely acknowledged, with a heartfelt anecdote shared by her sister shedding light on the depth of her giving nature.
In a recent Instagram post, Stella Parton reminisced about the ritual of early morning phone calls with Dolly, where they would enjoy coffee together every Tuesday. During one of their last conversations, Dolly expressed her willingness to undergo experimental medical treatments even if there was no hope for her, emphasizing her desire to potentially benefit others in the future.
While inquiries to Dolly Parton’s publicist regarding her involvement in experimental treatment received no response, her notable donation to Nashville’s Vanderbilt University Medical Center for COVID-19 research in November 2020 is well-documented. Part of this donation contributed to the development of the Moderna mRNA coronavirus vaccine.
When Dolly received her initial vaccine dose, she did so publicly, serenading the moment with a rendition of altered lyrics from her song “Jolene.” The administering doctor, Dr. Naji Abumrad, shared a longstanding friendship with Dolly, dating back to their meeting at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2013 following a minor car accident. According to an opinion piece in the New York Times by Dr. Abumrad’s son, he was by Dolly’s side in her final moments.
Stella Parton paid tribute to her sister, emphasizing Dolly’s remarkable generosity, thoughtfulness, and kindness. She urged others to emulate Dolly’s example, recognizing her sister as a true beacon of goodness in the world.