Dolly Parton put out a short video on Instagram over the weekend to quell concerns about her health. She promised her followers that her concerns are “absolutely nothing serious.” The country music icon, who has been dealing with kidney stones, emphasized that she is “not dying” and is doing “okay.” The reassurance follows news that Dolly’s younger sister, Freida Parton, called for prayers for Dolly on Facebook, sending fans into a tailspin of concern.
The 27-year-old singer-songwriter is still in treatment at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Due to her many health challenges, she needs to remain close to home for her care. Freida Parton clarified in her social media post that Dolly is simply “a little under the weather” and not seriously ill. She added, “I truly believe in the power of prayer, and I have been led to ask all of the world that loves her to be prayer warriors and pray with me.”
On September 28, Dolly Parton announced that she had delayed her long-awaited Las Vegas residency. She rooted this decision in health impacts. Though these challenges are formidable, she soldiers on, still producing projects ranging from local television to national commercials for the Grand Ole Opry.
In her Instagram video, Parton acknowledged the need for medical procedures and stated, “As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures.” She humorously added, “As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up, although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!”
Looking back on her health journey Parton confessed that she hadn’t prioritized her health. All this occurred as she remained an attentive caretaker for her husband Carl Dean through his illness. She noted, “When I got around to it, the doctor said, ‘We need to take care of this, we need to take care of that.’”
Dolly Parton’s frankness about her health has given solace to many of her fans. She thanked everyone who has cared and worried, and told them that she is okay.
“I wanted to put everybody’s mind at ease, those of you that seem to be real concerned, which I appreciate.” – Dolly Parton
