Dolly Parton knew music was her calling from early age. She first started performing at the age of 10, and just three years later she debuted on the Grand Ole Opry making $20 a week.
Most of the family members on her momâs side were very musical and played instruments, so music was a fundamental part of her life from the moment she was born. Her love for music grew even deeper when her uncle Lewis gave her his cherished little Martin guitar.
Soon after graduating high school, Parton moved to Nashville and quickly rose to fame. Throughout her career, she has written over 3,000 songs, sold more than 100 million albums, topped the country charts 25 times, and won eight Grammy Awards.
She and her husband of many years, Carl Dean, never had children, and according to Parton it was a decision they made together, although they sometimes wonder what their children would have looked like if they had any.
Speaking on the topic, she shared with Today the reason behind that decision.
âIâve made sacrifices, but I think, like I said, I believe what I know Iâm supposed to do,â she said. âIâve made the sacrifice of time⌠and not having time to spend with family, and you give up family and friends, vacation, and work without end, 24/7, 365, but you got to make the sacrifice.â
However, this decision wasnât entirely hers. Actually, she experienced heath struggles.
In 1985, Parton was diagnosed with endometriosis, which led to the country singerâs partial hysterectomy.
In her book Dolly on Dolly: Interviews and Encounters with Dolly Parton, she wrote, âI wasnât conscious of nutrition, I wasnât taking care of myselfâŚI 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 problemsâall over health problems, actually.â
The condition affected her life and led her to severe depression. Sadly, the realization that she couldnât conceive children naturally was a heavy burden for her. âSuddenly, I was a middle-aged woman. I went through a dark time until I made myself snap out of it,â she said.
Although Dolly Parton doesnât have children of her own, she is ensuring that millions of kids receive high-quality books through her program.
Being loving and caring as she is, Parton is adored by millions.
Sheâs an advocate for womenâs empowerment, animal welfare, arts and culture, and a lot more.
As she inspires countless others with her music and determination, Dolly Partonâs legacy will be cherished for generations to come.
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