Dolly Parton offered to try experimental drugs to help others if there was "no hope" in her cancer battle, sister says

August 27, 2026 / 6:43 PM EDT / CBS News

Dolly Parton offered to try experimental drugs to help others if there was "no hope" in her cancer battle, sister says

TL;DR

  • Dolly Parton offered to participate in experimental drug treatments for her cancer if there was no hope, to benefit future patients.
  • Her sister, Stella Parton, described Dolly as someone who was always thinking of others.
  • Dolly Parton was known for her philanthropy, including the Dollywood Foundation, the Imagination Library, and a $1 million donation to Vanderbilt University for COVID-19 research.
  • Dolly Parton died at age 80 after a brief cancer battle.
  • Her passing was mourned by politicians and celebrities, who praised her as an unforgettable icon.