Dolly Parton’s extensive history of charitable acts has been well-documented, and a heartfelt tribute from her sister sheds light on the depth of her giving nature. 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 treatments even if there was no hope for her, solely to aid future medical advancements. Despite inquiries from CBC News regarding Dolly’s potential involvement in experimental treatments before her passing, her publicist has not provided any response.
Although details on Dolly’s possible experimental treatments remain unconfirmed, her significant contribution to COVID-19 research at Nashville’s Vanderbilt University Medical Center is widely acknowledged. In November 2020, she donated $1 million to aid in COVID-19 research, notably supporting the development of the Moderna mRNA coronavirus vaccine.
Dolly made headlines when she publicly received her first vaccine dose, singing a modified version of her hit song “Jolene” to promote vaccination. The administering doctor in the video, Dr. Naji Abumrad, shared a longstanding friendship with Dolly since their initial meeting following her minor car accident at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2013.
According to a recent opinion piece in the New York Times by Jad Abumrad, son of Dr. Naji Abumrad and creator of the podcast “Dolly Parton’s America,” Dr. Abumrad was by Dolly’s side in her final moments. Stella Parton expressed her admiration for her sister’s genuine character, highlighting Dolly’s generosity and kindness that made the world a better place.