Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
The country music icon Dolly Parton revealed in February that the children’s hospital would carry her name.
Dolly Parton is receiving widespread praise for her generous donation to the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital gift as a “surreal moment.”
In an interview with Chief Healthcare Executive on Monday, March 30, Schaefer praised Parton’s “incredibly disarming personality.”
“It was truly humbling to hear her speak about the significance of this gift—for her, for her community, for this hospital, and for children,” he said, reflecting on meeting Parton, 80.
Schaefer explained that Parton’s contribution would allow the hospital to expand its medical staff, invest in new programs and technology, and bolster fundraising efforts.
“When someone of her stature, respected regionally, nationally, and globally, supports this mission, it brings enormous benefits,” he said. “Her lifelong dedication to children enhances the future of our work tremendously.”
While he did not disclose the exact amount, Schaefer described the donation as “generational and transformational.”
“What I can share is that her commitment goes beyond anything we could have imagined. It’s beyond generous and will serve as a lifeline for our mission for years to come,” he said. “We are both excited and humbled by her support.”
He added that renaming the hospital will allow the organization to highlight the full scope of its services and envision future growth, helping fulfill its responsibility to patients and families today and in the future.
“The partnership with Dolly Parton will amplify and accelerate initiatives in a way that would not have been possible without her support, raising awareness and backing for providers, clinicians, patients, and families alike,” Schaefer said.
Parton first shared the news in February via an Instagram Reel, announcing that the hospital had officially adopted her name. In a joint post with the Today show and the hospital’s official account, she said, “I’ve always believed every child deserves a fair chance to grow up healthy, hopeful, and surrounded by love. That belief is what brought me together with the amazing team at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.”
She continued, “For nearly 90 years, they’ve provided compassionate, skilled care. They see children not just as patients, but as precious lives—each with a story and a future. I’m thrilled to share that East Tennessee Children’s Hospital is now… Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital. Yay!”
Parton concluded by encouraging the public to join her in supporting the hospital’s mission, emphasizing the importance of combining world-class care with a caring heart for children across East Tennessee and beyond.