Dolly Parton Opens Up About Health Struggles: From Endometriosis to Overcoming Depression
Dolly Parton, the beloved Queen of Country, has delighted fans with her timeless hits for over six decades, but her journey has not been without its health struggles. The 78-year-old music legend, who first entered the spotlight in 1967, has faced a series of personal and physical challenges that have tested her resilience throughout her career.
Despite her phenomenal success, including over 100 million records sold worldwide and 25 chart-topping hits, Dolly has also battled several health issues that have taken both a physical and emotional toll. Away from the stage, the singer has faced difficulties that have often brought her to some “dark places,” as she described in her autobiography Dolly on Dolly: Interviews and Encounters with Dolly Parton.
Early Health Struggles:
Dolly first began experiencing health issues when she turned 35. She opened up about how, at that time, she had neglected her nutrition and self-care while working tirelessly. In her book, Dolly admitted, “I was getting away with murder. I wasn’t watching what I ate, I wasn’t conscious of nutrition, wasn’t taking care of myself. I was working hard, and underneath I was a pile of personal and emotional problems. All at once I fell apart. It was stomach problems and female problems – all over health problems actually.”
Endometriosis and its Impact:
As her career skyrocketed in the 1980s with the success of 9 to 5 and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Dolly’s health took a further turn for the worse. In 1984, while experiencing severe stomach pain, Dolly ignored her doctor’s advice and performed on stage. The result was a collapse during a performance in Indianapolis, which led to internal bleeding. She was later diagnosed with endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often causing extreme pain and complications.
At just 36 years old, Dolly underwent a partial hysterectomy, which ended her ability to conceive children naturally. The emotional aftermath of the surgery sent Dolly into a deep depression. She candidly confessed in her book, “It was an awful time for me, every day I thought, ‘I wish I had the nerve to kill myself.’ Suddenly, I was a middle-aged woman. I went through a dark time, until I made myself snap out of it.”
Struggles with Eating and Body Image:
The physical and emotional pain Dolly experienced after the hysterectomy led to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including binge eating and excessive alcohol consumption. She quickly gained 50 pounds, admitting that she would eat three pizzas at once and still crave fast food. This unhealthy cycle of overeating and dieting further strained her body. Dolly acknowledged that “overeating is as much a sickness as drugs or alcohol,” recognizing the toll it was taking on her body and spirit.
Despite the challenges, Dolly eventually took control of her health, undergoing additional surgeries to address abdominal pain and prevent internal hemorrhaging. Her experience with dieting and body image issues led her to adopt healthier habits. She began focusing on maintaining a balanced diet and incorporating regular exercise into her routine, which allowed her to regain her energy and strength to continue performing.
A Healthier Outlook:
Today, Dolly Parton continues to captivate audiences worldwide with her iconic voice and stage presence. Her journey through personal and physical struggles has not only made her stronger but has also allowed her to inspire others. Dolly’s candidness about her health battles, including endometriosis and her mental health challenges, has given fans a glimpse into the true resilience behind the legendary artist.
Through her commitment to a healthier lifestyle, Dolly has maintained her ability to perform and inspire millions, proving that even in the face of adversity, she can keep shining brightly. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of perseverance, and it serves as a reminder that even the brightest stars face struggles, but they can overcome them with courage and determination.