Dolly Parton’s Health Struggles – From Endometriosis to Deep Depression
For over six decades, Dolly Parton has graced the world with her unforgettable music, captivating audiences with hits like 9 to 5, Jolene, and I Will Always Love You. Her remarkable career has made her a household name, cementing her status as the Queen of Country with over 100 million records sold worldwide. However, her journey to success hasn’t always been smooth, and behind the bright lights and chart-topping hits, Parton has faced significant health challenges that have impacted both her body and mind.
In an emotional reflection in her biography Dolly on Dolly: Interviews and Encounters with Dolly Parton (2017), Dolly opened up about the health issues she began experiencing in her mid-30s. She revealed, “I was getting away with murder. I wasn’t watching what I ate, wasn’t conscious of nutrition, wasn’t taking care of myself.” Despite her hard-working nature and immense success, Dolly was dealing with underlying personal and emotional struggles that eventually took a toll on her physical health. At the age of 35, she had her first major health crisis, which manifested as stomach problems and female health issues, eventually causing her to collapse under the strain.
In the early 1980s, after achieving international fame with her hit 9 to 5 and starring in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Dolly’s health took another severe downturn. In 1984, while performing despite being advised by doctors to rest, she collapsed on stage in Indianapolis due to intense abdominal pain and internal bleeding. This shocking incident led to her diagnosis of endometriosis, a painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other areas, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Dolly underwent two surgeries to prevent further internal bleeding and deal with the condition that caused her extreme discomfort.
Despite these health battles, Parton remained a beacon of strength, never letting her struggles overshadow her determination to keep performing. However, her health issues continued to haunt her, and her fight with endometriosis was just one of many physical challenges she faced over the years.
On top of physical pain, Dolly has also battled deep depression. In interviews, she’s spoken candidly about moments when the weight of fame, personal loss, and the pressures of being in the public eye felt unbearable. Though she’s always been the picture of positivity and joy on stage, her vulnerability behind the scenes reminds fans that even legends like Dolly Parton have their struggles.
Parton’s willingness to share her journey with fans has only deepened the connection people have with her. Her ability to turn personal pain into art, her enduring spirit despite adversity, and her continued commitment to both her music and charitable efforts serve as a testament to her resilience. While her health has been tested numerous times, Dolly Parton remains an icon who not only survives but thrives, using her experiences to inspire others. As she continues to work, perform, and create, fans can rest assured that the Queen of Country will keep shining—no matter the battles she faces.