Dolly Parton makes 'generational and transformational' donation to children’s hospital named after her

Dolly Parton has made a 'beyond generous' donation to a children's hospital in Tennessee, ultimately providing it with a 'lifeline'.

Earlier this year, the East Tennessee Children's Hospital was renamed as the Dolly Parton Children's Hospital, after the legendary musician, 80, made a contribution.

While the amount of Parton's donation has not been disclosed, the hospital's president and CEO, Matt Schaefer, said the money "positions this organisation and the community around us in a really enviable and exciting place.”

Split across numerous projects, the funding will ultimately benefit children receiving treatment and those who are providing the services.

“What I can tell you is that she has made a generational and transformational commitment to Children’s and its mission,” Schaefer said in an interview with the Chief Healthcare Executive.

Dolly Parton

“That commitment is something that goes beyond our wildest expectations, that is beyond generous, and will be a lifeline for this mission for now and for years to come.

“And we’re excited about and humbled by her willingness to do so," he added.

The news comes after Parton made her first public appearance of 2026 in March, following some time away from the spotlight.

Her sister had unintentionally started rumours about Parton's health last year after asking for 'prayers', and after she cancelled her Las Vegas residency, fans had grown concerned about the star.

She explained how she'd faced 'health challenges' lately and opened up about grieving her husband Carl Dean, who passed away last year.

"I've been up to a lot. I've not been touring, as you know. I've had a few little health issues, and we're taking good care of them.

“I just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl and a lot of other little things going on.

“I just got myself kind of where I needed to build myself back up spiritually, emotionally, and physically. But, all is good. It didn’t slow me down," Parton, who was married to Dean for 58 years, said.

Dolly was married to Carl Dean for 60 years ((Instagram/Dolly Parton)

The 80-year-old singer has been open about her grief since her husband passed away at the age of 82, previously admitting she was 'doing better than I thought I would'.

Despite her short break from the spotlight, Parton has insisted she has no plans to quit the music industry just yet.

She said: "And don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet.

"But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding."