Dolly Parton ‘Leaning on’ Her Celebrity Friends Who Are ‘Afraid of Losing’ Her Amid Health Struggles

Dolly Parton’s friends are surrounding her with love as she navigates health challenges, a source tells the National Enquirer. 

“Dolly’s been a rock for the likes of Reba [McEntire], Kelly [Clarkson] and so many others, and they want to be there for Dolly, too,” the source explains.

“They’re checking in, sending care packages and notes, and telling her they’re here to help and anything she needs, whether it be a hug or a talk,” the insider adds.

However, the source claims that while the 79-year-old country star’s friends are putting on a brave face, they “are extremely upset to hear she’s having these health issues,” and “are afraid of losing her.”

As for how the “9 to 5” singer feels, the insider notes that she “appreciates their comforting words” and is “leaning on them more than ever,” especially since her beloved husband, Carl Dean, passed away in March. 

Parton first sparked concerns about her health when she cancelled her appearance at her Dollywood theme park in September.

“I had a kidney stone that was causing me a lot of problems, turned out it gave me an infection, and the doctor said, ‘You don’t need to be traveling right this minute,’” the “Jolene” hitmaker explained in a video message.

Then, on Sunday, September 28, the 10-time Grammy Award winner alerted fans that she would need to “postpone” her six-show Las Vegas residency, which was supposed to take place in December.

“As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures,” Parton penned in an Instagram post.

“And don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet,” Parton further wrote. “But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so l can be ready for more big adventures with all of you.”