Dolly Parton's sister asks for prayers in emotional plea amid singer's health battle

Dolly Parton's younger sister is asking for prayers for the singer as she penned an update in an emotional post shared on social media. Freida Parton, the 68-year-old sister of the country music icon, took to Facebook to share a message about her sibling. "Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly," Freida wrote on Facebook on Tuesday. "I truly believe in the power of prayer, and I have been lead to ask all of the world that loves her to be prayer warriors and pray with me."

Freida, who is one of Parton's 11 siblings and herself a musician, added, "She's strong, she's loved, and with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know in my heart she's going to be just fine. Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!"

Dolly announced last month that she would be postponing her Las Vegas residency which was originally scheduled from December 4 to December 13 at the Colosseum Theater at Caesars Palace - until September 2026 due to "health challenges".

The country icon penned a candid message on her Instagram in September which read: "I want the fans and public to hear directly from me that, unfortunately, I will need to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts.

"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."

Despite the setback, Dolly reassured fans that she is not thinking about retirement.

"Don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet,' she said.

"But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding."

The news comes just seven months after the death of her husband Carl Dean who died in March aged 82.

The I Will Always Love You singer said she was very thankful for all the messages she received since her beloved husband's death.