Dolly Parton is taking a brief step back from public appearances after experiencing a bit of a health setback.
The legendary singer, 79, was slated to appear at her beloved Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, on Wednesday, September 17, to unveil a new attraction. Instead, she addressed fans in a heartfelt video message, explaining that she is currently recovering from a kidney stone.
“I know, I’m here and you’re there and wondering why that is,” she said in the clip shared on X by journalist Marcus Leshock. “I had a little problem. I had a kidney stone.”
Parton went on to reveal that complications arose. “Turns out there was an infection, and the doctor said, ‘You don’t need to be traveling around this minute, so you need a few days to get better,’” she explained. “So he suggested I not go to Dollywood today.”
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Despite the scare, Parton reassured her devoted fans that her recovery is on track. “Don’t worry about me, I’m gonna be ok,” she added. “Just can’t do it today.”
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Parton’s latest health news comes during an emotional year for the star, following the death of her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, in March at the age of 82. Reflecting on his private health struggles in May, Parton said she was comforted knowing “he was not suffering anymore,” but admitted the “loss and the loneliness” have been deeply felt.