• Dolly Parton missed Dollywood’s Night Flight Expedition announcement due to kidney stone recovery.
• She shared a personal video explaining the situation and reassured fans about her health.
• This is not her first kidney stone experience, and it followed a challenging year personally.
• The new Dollywood ride is set to be a groundbreaking adventure opening in 2026.
• Dolly remains optimistic and grateful for fan support during her recovery.

Dolly Parton, the country music legend, was recently unable to attend a significant event at her Dollywood theme park, where the new Night Flight Expedition attraction was launched. At the age of 79, she was absent because she was recuperating from a kidney stone complication that led to an infection. Her doctor advised her to avoid traveling until she made a full recovery, resulting in her missing the event.

Dolly Parton’s Video Message at Dollywood Event Explained Absence

Although Dolly Parton couldn’t be present at the launch in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, she connected with fans through a sincere video message. In the video, she expressed her apologies for being unable to attend and explained, “I had a kidney stone that was giving me lots of trouble, which led to an infection, and the doctor told me, ‘You should not be traveling right now, so you need some time to heal.’” She assured everyone that her spirit was with them and promised a return soon.

Kidney Stone Recovery Challenges for Dolly Parton

This isn’t Dolly’s first bout with kidney stones. Back in 2015, she underwent the removal of three kidney stones and now faces yet another challenge during an emotionally trying period. Earlier in 2025, she grappled with the passing of her husband, Carl Dean. The infection from the kidney stone required her to rest and step back from her busy schedule, including missing out on this much-anticipated Dollywood occasion.

The Exciting Night Flight Expedition Ride Debut

Despite her absence, the unveiling of the new Night Flight Expedition ride was a highlight for Dollywood fans and visitors. The ride, scheduled to open in 2026, is described as an immersive adventure combining soaring, plunging, climbing, and navigating — heralded as the first ride of its kind worldwide. The theme park teased this unprecedented attraction on social media, capturing the excitement of what happens in the Smoky Mountains after dark.

Dolly Parton’s Commitment to Fans and Future Appearances

Dolly’s quick video message shows her dedication to keeping fans informed and connected. She thanked everyone for their understanding and encouraged them not to worry about her health. Although temporarily sidelined, she conveyed optimism about her recovery, saying, “I’m gonna be okay. Just can’t do it today.” Fans can look forward to catching her at future Dollywood events once she has fully recovered.

Health Lessons from Dolly Parton’s Experience

Dolly Parton’s kidney stone episode serves as a reminder of the importance of timely health care and following medical advice. Kidney stones can cause significant pain and complications like infections, which require rest and sometimes lifestyle adjustments. The star’s openness about her condition also helps reduce stigma and encourages people to seek help early.

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