Country star and philanthropist Dolly Parton has given another generous donation to help children battling diseases. According to Southern Living, Parton gave $1 million to pediatric infectious disease research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) in Nashville, Tennessee. The medical center referred to Parton’s donation as a “transformative gift” and shared that her long-time generosity has helped and continues to save lives.
Parton, who has a long history of donating to pediatric medical care, shared in a statement that she loves children and believes “no child should ever have to suffer.” Parton feels that donating to the research and medical centers is a way for her to help keep as many children as possible healthy and safe. Jeff Balser, MD, PhD, President and CEO of VUMC and Dean of the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, shared that Parton’s latest gift is going to strengthen their defenses against future threats and help save more lives.
According to Southern Living, “the University is currently working on research to prevent resistance to antibiotics, diagnosing and treating infections in children with cancer, and defining the impact of childhood infections throughout the world. VUMC’s researchers have also conducted clinical trials aimed at reducing life-threatening symptoms associated with COVID-19 and as well as new therapies that could effectively treat and prevent the infection.”
With her passion for children and helping others, Parton is a role model showing others the difference compassion and generosity makes. With her own generous donations and thoughtful acknowledgements, Parton is giving children and their families a tremendous amount of hope and faith. Through her love and support, Parton is bringing even more strength to the brave children, their families, and the medical professionals fighting to overcome these diseases.