Country music icon Dolly Parton is speaking openly about her current health struggles after being forced to miss another high-profile awards ceremony this week.
Missed Hall of Fame Induction
The 79-year-old singer was scheduled to be inducted into the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions' Hall of Fame for her significant contributions to Dollywood Parks & Resorts. However, medical professionals advised against travel, preventing her from attending the ceremony in person.
"I sure wish I could be with you in person today, but you probably heard that I've been dealing with a few health challenges this fall, and my doctors told me to take it easy for just a little while," Parton expressed in an Instagram video message.
Recent Health Timeline
Parton's health concerns first surfaced in September when she postponed her Las Vegas residency, citing the need for medical procedures. The ten-time Grammy winner humorously referred to the situation as her "100,000-mile check-up" while assuring fans it wasn't related to plastic surgery.
The entertainment legend also missed the Academy Governors Awards in November, where she received the prestigious Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. In a video acceptance speech, she called the Oscar "a blessing of a lifetime" and expressed her continued commitment to humanitarian work.
Additional health issues emerged when Parton couldn't attend the unveiling of a new Dollywood ride due to kidney stone complications that led to an infection.
Addressing Retirement Rumors
Parton has been quick to dismiss speculation about her retiring from music and entertainment. "Don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet," she reassured fans in September.
The situation escalated when Parton's sister, Freida, posted a concerning message on Facebook about praying for Dolly's health. This prompted the singer to directly address her followers to calm their fears.
"I want you to know that I'm OK," Parton stated in an Instagram video. "I wanted you to know that I'm not dying. Did you see that AI picture of Reba and me, oh Lordy! I mean, they had Reba at my deathbed, and we both look like we need to be buried."
She attributed some of her current health challenges to neglecting self-care while caring for her late husband Carl, who passed away earlier this year.
Despite the health setbacks, Parton remains optimistic about her future in entertainment, with her Las Vegas residency now scheduled for September next year at Caesar's Palace.
