Dolly Parton's sister reveals singer offered to test experimental cancer medicines before death
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Just days after Dolly Parton’s death, her younger sister Stella Parton revealed that the country legend had offered to try experimental medicines in the hope of helping future cancer patients better manage their own health struggles.
Stella shared a Facebook post in honor of her sister and wrote, “My sister was always thinking of others and if you want to honor her legacy, show more kindness, lift others up and give more of your time and resources as she continued to do to the very end.”
Dolly Parton’s sister reveals singer’s selfless offer to help cancer patients
Stella shared the post on Thursday, August 27, highlighting, "My sister was one of the most generous, thoughtful and kind people I've ever known. What the world saw is exactly who she was, so much so, she told me recently that if there was no hope for her, she would still allow her medical team to try experimental [medicines] in the hope of helping others in the future."
She said her big sister arrived in heaven "on time" on Tuesday after the news of Dolly's death came out following a brief battle with cancer. "I know she’s showing out big time, in all her sparkles and shine. That was my sister’s way," Dolly's sister added.
"That was my sister’s way. Every Tuesday about this time, before the sun came up and the world was still asleep, she and I for many years had our coffee together over the phone. Being little farm girls, we’ve continued to be early risers," the 77-year-old added.
"My Tuesday morning coffee time will never be the same, but her love, respect and goodness will remain. Dolly loved the world and everyone in it. I would criticize and complain about it, and she would laugh and say, 'Shoot, Tedda, we’ve got more important things to do than worry about their silly a**es,'" Stella futher wrote.
"She was right, and she proved it every day. She left the world a better place by being in it so let’s follow her example. Love and respect to all of you. Stella," she concluded.
Dolly Parton dies at 80 following brief battle with cancer
Dolly died on Tuesday at the age of 80 following a battle with cancer. In the period leading up to her death, the 'Jolene' crooner had faced health issues, including dizziness and dehydration, which forced her to cancel a public appearance at Dollywood.
Despite her health struggles, she continued working on her projects. Her death was first announced publicly by her nephew, Bryan Seaver.
Her management team and representatives said Dolly died peacefully at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by her loved ones.
