Grace De La Rosa, Interview, Colon Cancer Alliance Under 50 – YouTube

Hi this is Grace De La Rosa

As a survivor of young-onset colon cancer, one of my missions is to raise awareness and educate the community about colon cancer and  the importance of screening and early detection; to give hope to newly diagnosed patients; and to save lives.

I was diagnosed at the age of 38 with Stage 3(c) colon cancer in 2005 and treated with a “chemo cocktail” called FOLFOX, a melange of several drugs including steroids. Looks can be deceiving: I was deemed permanently disabled due to the long-term side effects of chemo. This includes bone and joint degeneration as well as peripheral neuropathy, extensive nerve damage particularly to hands and feet that causes numbness which, to some degree, might help in a sense that it may lessen whatever pain may exist or arise. 

Also, a rare procedure, my left sacroiliac (SI) joint was rebuilt and fused with titanium bolts and rods.  After years of chronic pain, complications, medical scares including liver cancer and Multiple Sclerosis (MS), numerous surgeries and what seemed like never-ending doctor appointments, I decided that enough was enough.

By 2016, my daily pill box included up to 24 (twenty-four!) prescriptions and over-the-counter (OTC) medications to alleviate some of my long-term side effects. Half of the pills supposedly counteracted the side effects from the other pills. This is known as polypharmacy, taking 5 or more medications to alleviate symptoms of an ailment(s). With the help of my general physician, I titrated down and discontinued almost all of my medications.

Today, I am blessed to be able to say that I have more better days than not.  I  am grateful that I no longer walk with a cane or a walker.  I surmise that the pain could be much worse without the neuropathy (nerve damage; numbness of peripheries), a blessing in disguise!

One moment can change your entire world and life as you know it. Sometimes, that moment may seem like it’s for the better, other times for the worst. Oftentimes, it’s exactly what the soul needs to practice resilience and ascend in spiritual development. And it’s not just you who is being affected but also the people surrounding you.

What lessons are they meant to learn from their experience with you as you live through your challenge?

What I find most fascinating is that we can learn quite a bit by looking back; and moving forward, that understanding the importance of relishing each moment as if today were your last day on Earth might be the very lesson necessary to experience the full depth and breadth of the true gift of life, the simplicity of lifelong joy.

Yesterday, Sat., August 29, 2026, marked 21 Years from being diagnosed with Stage 3(c) colon cancer. Or, in a more uplifting manner, I could say that yesterday was my 21st year of being a Cancer Thriver. Not a Survivor, because that suggests that I’m fighting for just the bare minimum.

As a Thriver, I’ve overcome most of the challenges that go along with early life adjustments while recovering from surgery and radiation and chemo and annual and routine checkups. And I’ve lived through other surgeries to fix serious side effects from cancer treatments including past surgeries and chemotherapy. I’ve already gone through the physical aspects of colon cancer, and it’s been more spiritual and always about giving back to others and the community.

I didn’t post this yesterday because I wasn’t sure if I wanted to continue my annual tradition of posting about my story, my experience. And then I remembered that it’s not about me. It’s never been about me. I do this in honor of all those who fought before me, and for their loved ones, their health, wellness and medical team, and other supporters who cared for them along the way. It’s about reminding others that they are not alone, and that there’s hope for a positive outcome in more ways than one.

August 29, 2005 was like most any other day for me living in Southern MD as a military pilot’s wife and mother to two beautiful young souls. I remember it was a clear, mild late summer morning, around 9:00am.

The kids were at daycare and school, and I was downstairs in the basement doing laundry, folding clothes when the phone rang. It was a doctor from my medical team at the National Naval Medical Center (NNMC)—the same hospital where our presidents get treated—who delivered the news to me so matter-of-factly and seemingly nonchalantly: “The test results came back and You Have Cancer.”

I remember being keenly aware of my breathing in and out, feeling clear-headed, in control. And surprisingly, even for me, I had not a tear in my eye, no sadness, no fear.

I started creating a list in my mind of the people I needed to call to share this news…in case I died sometime that day, wanting to be sure the children were cared for immediately. My list included my husband, my baby sister Gina, and my best friend Kelly.

In that order. I did not hear anything else the doctor might have told me after I heard the word “cancer” slip past her lips. This is where I could have used a second set of ears to listen and hands to take notes.

But I digress. I’ll reserve further cursory suggestions and recommendations at a later time. Chemotherapy, multiple surgeries and various medical procedures filled my life for the next few years, with permanent changes physically, mentally and spiritually.

I’ve seen many friends and acquaintances die from cancer or chemo.

And instead of hardening me, despite my daily reminder from bodily aches and pains—most days better than others—along with permanent nerve, bone, joint and digestive damage, my experience continues to leave me wanting to help others find ways not only to survive but to thrive from this and other dis-eases and help prevent, maintain and optimize their well-being, creating healthier ways of living.

I’m just so grateful that my body and mind were able to withstand the harshness of FOLFOX, the chemo cocktail that I received for six months. Back then, chemo was nothing more than systemic toxins and was not target-specific. Rather, the toxins affected both the cancerous and healthy cells.

Grace De La Rosa is an Improv Pianist providing soothing, relaxing and healing sounds for gatherings, healing ceremonies, parties and events. Improv piano is music played completely spontaneous, unplanned and unrehearsed. For this reason, she does not take requests nor repeat any song.  Grace allows her thoughts, feelings, emotions and the Spirit of God–the Divine Universal Energy, Chi–to move her in the moment. Please call (904) 386-3634 for rates and availability.​

Music heals. Its unique combination of Vibrational Frequencies activate or deactivate various electrical zones within our nervous system and release a customized blend of hormones that decrease one’s resting heart rate, blood pressure and other physiological effects of stress and buried trauma. Watch how an Alzheimer’s patient responds to music. They seem to forget that they aren’t supposed to remember. Our bodies can heal themselves. Naturally.

Today, I understand that there are several target-specific treatment options available. There are also other holistic, alternative and integrative treatments to chemo and radiation that may be used solo or in conjunction with allopathic modalities.

I welcome invitations to be of service as a keynote speaker or guest panelist for your next event, as a colon cancer survivor and thriver, former fitness instructor turned Holistic Wellness Consultant/educator and mental health advocate, brain trainer–Mindfulness and Guided Meditation Facilitator, and heart communicator–Spiritual Advisor and Communicator (Psychic Medium, Channel), Master Spiritual Energy Healer, Medical Intuitive, Mystic and Prophet.

No matter which path you choose to take, know that you are not alone.

For more information, please visit my websites at:

The Power of Mindful Presence: How to Transform Your Life and Work

“The Jacksonville Buzz” with Grace De La Rosa from Living with Grace

https://www.facebook.com/GraceDLR.PsychicMedium

https://www.livingwithgrace.net/colon-cancer-advocate

http://www.gracedelarosa.com/beabluebuddy.html

https://www.facebook.com/BeABlueBuddy

https://www.youtube.com/@IMGraceDLR

About | Living With Grace | Mindfulness

https://www.instagram.com/imgracedlr

LivingwithGrace.net

Here’s an old video of me sharing my story and educating on colon cancer:

In this episode of Lyme and Beyond with Tanya, we sit down with Kimberly Keyser, whose story is one of raw courage, heartbreak, and unwavering determination. Kimberly opens up about her long and painful battle with chronic Lyme disease — a journey marked by misdiagnosis, isolation, and moments where hope felt impossibly far away.

She shares the turning points that changed everything: the symptoms no one could explain, the doctors who dismissed her, the treatments that finally brought glimmers of healing, and the inner strength she didn’t know she had until she needed it most.

This conversation is emotional, honest, and deeply human. Kimberly’s voice becomes a lifeline for anyone navigating chronic illness, reminding listeners that they are not alone, that their pain is real, and that healing — though rarely linear — is possible.

Whether you’re living with Lyme, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking stories of resilience, Kimberly’s testimony will stay with you long after the episode ends.

In this deeply personal episode of Lyme and Beyond with Tanya, host Tanya sits down with Kimberly Keyser to 

share her powerful and emotional journey through years of misdiagnoses and the eventual discovery of Lyme disease as the true root of her symptoms Spotify+1.

Misdiagnoses and the Lyme Revelation

Kimberly was initially told she had multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease, but after extensive testing and research, she uncovered that Lyme disease was the underlying cause of her chronic illness Spotify. This revelation came after years of confusion, frustration, and feeling dismissed by the medical system.

Passing Lyme In Utero

One of the most difficult aspects Kimberly shares is the reality of passing Lyme disease in utero to her children. She describes the symptoms her children experienced as they grew up, which mirrored her own struggles, and the emotional toll of seeing them face similar challenges Spotify+1.

Testing and Treatment Protocols

The episode dives into the various testing methods Kimberly pursued to confirm Lyme, including advanced lab work and functional health assessments. She also details the treatment protocols that helped her family — a combination of targeted therapies, lifestyle changes, and functional health coaching — that brought them closer to healing Spotify.

Lessons Learned

Kimberly’s story is a testament to resilience, wisdom, and hope. She emphasizes the importance of persistence in seeking the right diagnosis, the value of functional health approaches, and the need for compassion and understanding from healthcare providers Spotify+1.

How to Follow Her Work

If you’d like to learn more from Kimberly’s expertise as a Functional Health Coach, you can follow her on Facebook at @KimberlyKeyser Spotify+1.

Episode details:

• Release date: December 10, 2025
• Duration: ~52 minutes
• Listen on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Castos, and other podcast platforms lyme-and-beyond-with-tanya-1.castos.com+1

Spotify
A Family’s Fight: Strength, Survival & Hope with Kimberly Keyser
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4WnHukPFGphpzmrj8qwTeH

A Family’s Fight: Strength, Survival & Hope with Kimberly Keyser
https://lyme-and-beyond-with-tanya-1.castos.com/

A Family’s Fight: Strength, Survival & Hope with Kimberly Keyser –  Poddtoppen.se   _
A Family’s Fight: Strength, Survival & Hope with Kimberly Keyser

Lyme and Beyond with Tanya – Podcast – Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/lyme-and-beyond-with-tanya/id1744222813

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating Lyme disease, chronic illness, or the challenges of misdiagnosis, offering both inspiration and practical insights.

Here are several strong, platform‑ready caption options — each with a distinct tone so you can choose the one that fits your episode’s vibe.

Option 1 — Emotional & Empowering

Kimberly Keyser’s story is one of courage, heartbreak, and relentless hope. In this episode, she opens up about her battle with chronic Lyme — the misdiagnoses, the isolation, and the moments that changed everything. Her voice is a lifeline for anyone fighting to be believed. You are not alone.

Option 2 — Short & Punchy

A raw, powerful conversation with Kimberly Keyser about surviving chronic Lyme — and finding strength when the world doesn’t listen. This one stays with you.

Option 3 — Inspirational

Kimberly Keyser joins us to share her emotional journey through chronic Lyme: the struggle, the resilience, and the hope that kept her moving forward. Her story is a reminder that healing is never linear — but always possible.

Option 4 — Advocacy‑Focused

Chronic Lyme is real. The pain is real. The fight to be heard is real. Kimberly Keyser’s story shines a light on what so many endure in silence. Listen. Learn. Believe survivors.

Option 5 — Cinematic & Dramatic

This episode is not just a conversation — it’s a breaking‑open. Kimberly Keyser shares the kind of story that stays in your chest long after you stop listening. She walks us through the fear, the confusion, the misdiagnoses, the loneliness… and the quiet moments where she had to choose hope even when it felt impossible.

Her honesty is breathtaking. Her strength is unmistakable. And her journey through chronic Lyme is a reminder that behind every illness is a person fighting to be heard, believed, and supported.

This episode is a reminder that no one fights Lyme alone — not anymore. When Kimberly Keyser shares her story, she’s speaking for thousands who’ve lived the same fear, the same dismissal, the same exhausting search for answers. Her voice becomes a bridge — connecting patients, caregivers, and allies into one powerful community.

Every comment, every share, every moment of listening is part of something bigger: a movement built on compassion, validation, and the belief that every Lyme warrior deserves to be seen and supported.

We rise together. We advocate together. We heal together. Let’s keep building a community where no one’s pain is ignored and no one’s journey is walked alone.

Kimberly Keyser’s Lyme journey is more than a personal story — it’s a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the fight to be heard.

In this episode, Kimberly opens up about the years of misdiagnoses, the isolation of living with an invisible illness, and the emotional toll of being dismissed by those meant to help. She shares the turning points that shaped her path: the treatments that offered glimmers of hope, the strength she discovered in the darkest moments, and the community that reminded her she wasn’t alone.

Her voice is raw, vulnerable, and deeply human — a reminder that behind every chronic illness is a person fighting for recognition, compassion, and healing.

This episode is for the warriors, the caregivers, and the advocates. It’s for anyone who has ever felt unseen in their pain. Together, we listen. Together, we believe. Together, we rise.

Her journey is a song of shadows and light. Kimberly Keyser walks through the silence of misdiagnosis, the ache of invisibility, and the fragile threads of hope that refused to break.

Every step she takes is a testament: pain can be endured, voices can rise, and healing — though winding — is a path we walk together.

You are seen. You are believed. You are not alone.

A journey through darkness, determination, and the quiet moments where hope refuses to die. Kimberly Keyser’s story will move you — and change how you see chronic illness.

References

In this episode of Lyme and Beyond with Tanya – Search Videos

The Quiet Epidemic (2022) – Stream Free | Tubi

Under Our Skin – Top Documentary Films

There’s no shortage of reasons to love Dolly Parton. (TODAY Illustration / Getty Images)

Which type cancer did Dolly have – Search

Dolly Parton died after a brief battle with cancer, though the specific type of cancer has not been publicly disclosed.

Dolly Parton, the legendary country music icon, passed away at the age of 80 on August 25, 2026, at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by loved ones, following a brief battle with cancer, according to her representatives and estate statements Hollywood Life+2.

While her team confirmed that cancer was the cause of her death, they did not reveal the exact type of cancer she had Hollywood Life+2.
In the months leading up to her death, Parton had experienced various health challenges, including kidney and autoimmune-related issues, kidney stones, and episodes of dizziness and dehydration Hollywood Life+1.

She had also postponed her planned Las Vegas residency in 2025 due to these health concerns, though she continued to work on music, business, and philanthropic projects during this period Hollywood Life+2.

Despite these challenges, she remained active and engaged with her fans until shortly before her hospitalization on August 21, 2026 Hollywood Life+1.

Her family and representatives emphasized that her battle with cancer was brief and that she had been dealing with health problems that had not been publicly disclosed until her passing Hollywood Life+2.

The lack of disclosure regarding the specific type of cancer means that, while it is confirmed she succumbed to the disease, the medical details remain private Hollywood Life+1.

Dolly Parton’s death highlights her resilience and dedication, as she continued contributing to her music, philanthropy, and public life even while managing serious health issues. Her legacy endures through her music, charitable work, and the lives she touched worldwide Hollywood Life+1.

Dolly Parton’s death has illuminated a life that was so much more than being a country music icon.

The 10-time Grammy winner behind hits like “Jolene” and “9 to 5” died at 80 on Aug. 25. She left a legacy that has inspired artists across all musical genres and ages, as well as a reputation for philanthropy and kindness.

The way she lived her life made her beloved by millions and someone who will be studied by future generations.

Dolly Parton’s Life of Music, Humor, and Generosity

Gifted Entertainer got the rainbow George will – Search

 🌈 Gifted Performer Got the Rainbow – Search 🕊️

Dolly Parton’s legacy is defined as much by her music and humor as by her generosity and compassion. Born in 1946 in a one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, she rose from humble beginnings to become the “Queen of Country” with a career spanning over seven decades PBS. 

Her songs—like Jolene, Coat of Many Colors, and 9 to 5—told stories of love, resilience, and the dignity of ordinary people, resonating with audiences worldwide Forbes.

Music and Humor

Dolly’s music was both artistry and storytelling. She wrote what she knew, drawing from her own experiences of poverty, hard work, and faith Forbes. 

Her humor was a signature part of her persona—sharp, witty, and often delivered with a wink. She was known for her “Dollyisms,” one-liners that blended wisdom with levity, such as “If you see someone without a smile, give ’em one of yours” Sweetwater. 

Her stage presence combined charisma with a lightness that made her relatable and memorable.

Generosity and Philanthropy

Beyond the stage, Dolly’s generosity was unmatched. She founded the Imagination Library, which has mailed free books to children worldwide, reaching over 300 million recipients Psychology Today+1. 

She established the My People Fund to help families devastated by wildfires in East Tennessee, and opened Dollywood, creating thousands of jobs in her home state Psychology Today. 

She also donated millions to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, supporting COVID-19 vaccine research and pediatric disease studies Psychology Today.

Humility and Empathy

Dolly lived with humility, often downplaying her own achievements. She once entered a “Dolly impersonator” contest and didn’t even place, but she took it in stride Psychology Today. She believed in “no one ever cries alone” and always offered emotional support to those around her Psychology Today. Her empathy was woven into her music and public life, making her a comfort to fans and a role model for kindness.

Living Like Dolly

Her life teaches that music, humor, and generosity can go hand in hand. She found joy in the little things, celebrated beauty in everyday moments, and used her platform to uplift others Psychology Today+1. Whether through songwriting, philanthropy, or simple acts of kindness, Dolly showed that purpose and impact have no age limit Forbes.

In short, Dolly Parton lived a life where her music brought laughter and hope, her humor softened even the toughest moments, and her generosity left a lasting mark on communities—proving that a life well-lived is one that lifts others as much as it inspires.

Dolly Parton’s Powerful Message About Being Yourself

Here are just 10 reasons why we consider her a true national treasure.  

1. She Was Unafraid to Speak Her Mind

Parton, who was born in Tennessee in 1946, has had so many great quotes we can hardly list them all here. (Although we’ve certainly tried.) But one of our favorite “Dolly-isms” goes like this:

“I never think of myself as a star because, as somebody once said, ‘A star is nothing but a big ball of gas’ — and I don’t want to be that,” she told Billboard in 2014.

She also showed off her trademark wit in her first interview on TODAY in 1978, when she was asked about her signature look of big hair, high heels, makeup and rhinestones.

“I’m a very real person inside, and that’s where it really counts. And the rest is just something I enjoy doing,” she said. “My mama always said that any old barn looked better with a little red paint on it, and so I guess I’ve just painted the barn with a few extra coats!”

2. She Helped Fund a COVID-19 Vaccine

Parton is a longtime philanthropist, too.

In 2020, she donated $1 million to battle COVID-19. Her donation to Vanderbilt Health in Nashville, Tennessee, helped pay for research that played a key role in developing and testing one of the first COVID-19 vaccines, according to Vanderbilt Health.

“I’m just happy that anything I do can help somebody else, and when I donated the money to the COVID fund, I just wanted it to do good,” she told TODAY in November 2020. “Evidently, it is.”

“It’s not an exaggeration to say that Dolly has helped save countless lives through her philanthropy,” Vanderbilt Health President Jeff Balser said in a news release following Parton’s death.

Parton made another $1 million donation to Vanderbilt Health in 2022 to support pediatric infectious disease research.

“I love all children,” she said in a news release about the donation. “No child should ever have to suffer, and I’m willing to do my part to try and keep as many of them as I can as healthy and safe as possible.”

3. She Donated More Than 330 Million Books to Kids

Parton launched Imagination Library in 1995, intending to give children in Tennessee free books each month. The program was inspired by her father, a farmer from Tennessee whom she said was unable to read and write.

The program took off, and now Imagination Library is one of the largest literary programs in the world. It has distributed more than 330 million books to children to date, according to its website, and became the subject of a documentary in 2020 called “The Library that Dolly Built.”

In 2018, the Library of Congress honored her for the library.

“Of all the things I’ve done in my life, this is one of the most precious,” Parton said in a clip from the film.

Dolly Parton in 2007 as she launched Imagination Library in the United Kingdom. (Gareth Davies / Getty Images)© Gareth Davies

4. She Never Forgot Her Roots

Even after she reached international fame, Parton always stayed close to her roots in rural Tennessee.

She spoke lovingly about her home in her first interview with TODAY back in 1978.

“Somehow I just sensed that there was something greater in the world for me, even though I’m grateful for the Smoky Mountains and my home life because they’re great people, and it’s a great place to live,” she said.

In addition to her generous donations to Vanderbilt Health in Nashville, Parton’s Dollywood Foundation donated $1,000 per month to families impacted by wildfires in Tennessee in 2016.

In addition, she donated $1 million to an Appalachian relief nonprofit after devastating flooding in Tennessee and other southern states caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024.

On top of that, her Dollywood theme park and resort in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, celebrates her rural roots while bringing economic benefit to the surrounding areas.

5. She Spent Royalties From Whitney Houston’s Hit Version of ‘I Will Always Love You’ to Support the Black Community

Whitney Houston’s 1992 cover version of Parton’s 1974 song “I Will Always Love You” became one of her biggest hits as part of the soundtrack to the movie “The Bodyguard.”

Since Parton was the songwriter on the original track, she earned royalties on a song that spent 14 consecutive weeks as the No. 1 song on the Billboard Hot 100.

Parton was asked what she bought with all that royalty money in a 2021 episode of “Watch What Happens Live.”

“I bought my big office complex down in Nashville, and so I thought, ‘This is a wonderful place to be,’” Parton told host Andy Cohen. “I bought different property in what was the Black area of town, and it was mostly just Black families and people that lived around there. It was just off the beaten path from 16th Avenue and I thought, ‘I’m going to buy this place.’

“It was a whole strip mall,” she continued. “I thought this is the perfect place for me to be, considering it was Whitney. So I just felt this was great, I’m just going to be down here with her people, who are my people at well. I just love the fact that I spent that money on a complex, and I think this is the house that Whitney built.”

6. She Was Able to Be High-Functioning at 3 a.m.

“I’m usually up by 3 o’clock,” she told TODAY in 2018. “I go to bed early, but I’m just an early bird.”

Parton got a lot done while other folks were fast asleep and still found time to cook a savory southern breakfast for her husband of 59 years, Carl Thomas Dean, who died at 82 in 2025.

“I’m a very, very, very early riser,” she told Marie Claire magazinein 2021. “I go to bed pretty early, but I’m up and down. If I wake up and I’m pretty well awake, I think, I’ve got so much to do, I’ll get up and I’ll work a little while, write a little while, and I’ll lay back down.”

Dolly Parton in 2009. (Brendan Hoffman / Getty Images)© Brendan Hoffman

7. She Turned Up in Surprising Places

Who knew Dolly Parton was an uncredited executive producer on the 1997-2003 series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”?

And yet, it’s true: Sandollar Productions is a company Parton co-founded in 1986, and that company is a listed producer of “Buffy” (and also worked on the original 1992 film the series was based on). The film didn’t do well, but she kept the TV series rights.

8. She Saved a Child’s Life

While filming the 2020 Netflix holiday special “Christmas on the Square,” Parton pulled a 9-year-old actor named Talia Hill out of the path of an oncoming vehicle.

“We were on set, and I was at the hot chocolate station, and they said go back to your beginning positions,” Hill told Inside Edition. “So there was a vehicle moving, and I was walking, and then somebody grabbed me and pulled me back, and I looked up and it was Dolly Parton.”

“‘Well, I am an angel, you know,’” Hill said Parton told her.

Parton played an angel in the Christmas movie.

9. Parton Was Unabashedly Herself

Throughout her career, Parton dazzled us with her bling, her fringe, her big wigs and pure showbiz style, and we loved her for it.

But we also loved seeing her not as jazzed up. In her 1994 memoir, “Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business,” Parton shared a throwback photo of herself from 1965 with her natural hair in the recording studio, and she looked just lovely and very at home.

“In case you’re wondering, yes, that’s my real hair,” she wrote in the book.

She later shared the photo on Instagram, too.

10. And, Of Course …. The Music

For all of her amazing feats and accomplishments outside the industry, Parton was first and foremost a musician of exceptional caliber.

She’s composed more than 5,000 songs (including one you can’t hear until 2045), received nearly 200 industry awards and sold more than 100 million records around the world.   How Dolly Lived a Life of Music Humor and Generosity – Search Videos

This article was originally published on TODAY.com

The Dolly Parton Story: From Rags to Rhinestones | Remembering Dolly Parton

From The Heart – The Life and Music of Dolly Parton | Dollywood | 2026

Dolly Parton performs onstage in Los Angeles, circa 1975. Michael Ochs/Getty Images

Dolly Parton embodied the best parts of Appalachia

Story by Jason Kyle Howard

Key takeaways

• Appalachian Pride: Dolly embraced her mountain roots, turning stereotypes into strength and proudly representing East Tennessee throughout her life.
• Cultural Impact: Her music, including hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You”, made her a global icon while highlighting the beauty and resilience of Appalachia.
• Advocacy & Kindness: Dolly championed LGBTQ rights, supported racial justice, and created the Imagination Library, distributing over 300 million books to children, embodying love and inclusion.

My cousin tells a story: Several years before I was born, she was sitting on our great-grandmother’s lap at her modest home in a hollow in Eastern Kentucky. It was the late 1970s, when Dolly Rebecca Parton was well on her way to conquering the worlds of pop, Hollywood and business.

They were watching a rerun of “The Porter Wagoner Show,” the program that had helped launch Dolly to country music stardom, on a little TV set using rabbit ears, when she appeared. Even though our granny was, like all people in the mountains, well acquainted with Dolly by that point, she was still transfixed. Using the descriptive phrasing that was common then among older people, she said, “That is the prettiest little girl I have ever seen.”

It was a simple, truthful observation from a woman who herself knew the bleaker side of life, birthing and raising 11 children in a time when money was scarce and hard work provided barely enough to scrape by. But as news of Dolly’s death at the age of 80 from cancer sinks in, I keep returning to it, thinking about its meaning.

The singer-songwriter from Locust Ridge, Tennessee, whose songs became an indelible part of American life and who performed all over the world in places grand and humble, was beautiful in every sense of that overused word, and based on the accolades she is now receiving, only the most bitter of contrarians would disagree. 

Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner stand on the set of

(Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images) Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner on the set of “The Porter Wagoner Show,” circa 1967.

My cousin’s story is important to share because of what it reveals not only about Dolly, but also about her people and her native region. Far too often, and for far too long, Appalachia and its residents have not been seen as beautiful to the much of the country.

The journalist Annie Lowrey summed it up in her bracingly titled essay “What’s the Matter with Eastern Kentucky?”, which appeared in the New York Times Magazine in 2014. The region, she wrote, was the “smudge of the country,” an unfortunate phrase that was at once dismissive of the place and evoked a set of damaging stereotypes that have long been leveled at Appalachians themselves: unclean, dirty, something to be wiped away and forgotten. Because of a long history of such characterizations and perceptions, mountain people have often been forced to locate the beauty within themselves and their culture.

It’s easy to forget now, but there was a time when the woman who wrote masterpieces like “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You” — and deeper cuts like “Down From Dover,” “My Blue Tears” and “Wildflowers” — was reduced or dismissed altogether by the very American culture that now embraces her. A “Backwoods Barbie,” as she would later write: too gaudy, too blonde; all breasts, no substance. Common, sexist ways to dismiss women who dare to be themselves. 

But Dolly was also written off in some quarters because of her place of origin and how she spoke. Still, she never shied away from claiming her mountain identity; she never tried to change herself. Unlike her famous wigs, rhinestones and stilettos, it wasn’t something she could, or would, remove. Instead, like so many Appalachians before and since, she learned to leverage it to its best advantage, taking patronizing moments — like one that came in a 1978 interview with Barbara Walters, when the journalist infamously asked her, “Dolly, where I come from, would I have called you a hillbilly?” — and turning them in her favor. “If you would have,” Dolly replied, “it would have been something very natural, but I would have probably kicked you in the shins or something.” Then she pivoted to speaking about her pride at being from East Tennessee.

As much as she was proud of where she was from, Dolly also spent the latter part of her years preaching and living out loud a sermon to her native region. Grounded in love, her message also came with an implicit challenge: You can do better. 

As a place, Appalachia is just as good as any other, but it is also just as flawed. In many ways, the region is itself a microcosm of America as a whole, and just like in other parts of the country, it has become dominated by a reactionary set of beliefs that are the antithesis of who Dolly was and the radical gospel of inclusion she embodied. This made her representation of Appalachia even more critical, particularly after the 2016 presidential election that saw the majority of the region rejecting those values. In many ways, Dolly was the counterpoint of JD Vance, whose claiming of mountain roots provided the basis for his first memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy” — a book filled with regional stereotypes — and for his political identity. (As of this writing, the vice president has made no public comment about her death, an omission that makes its own statement about his Appalachian bona fides, not to mention his political instincts.)

Although Dolly famously refused to be overtly political, her values were clear. In shouts and whispers alike, she made sure people felt valued. In 1989, at the height of the AIDS epidemic, she served as a producer of “Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt,” the Academy Award-winning documentary that profiled people who had died from the virus and were featured on the AIDS Memorial Quilt. Five years later, she championed the LGBTQ community in her memoir, and posed on the cover of Out magazine in 1997. The writer Elissa Altman, who edited Dolly’s memoir during her time as an editor at HarperCollins, recalled yesterday in an Instagram post that the singer paid for the gender-affirming medical care of “a member of her team [who] was transitioning . . . in the 90s.” 

Dolly’s messages of affirmation and acceptance were pivotal for scores of queer Appalachians and Southerners. For so many of us, she was the first safe space that we knew in our own culture. And when her embrace rankled the fundamentalists among us, she didn’t back down, often calling them out in their vain attempts at playing God.

In a 2020 interview with Billboard, given at the height of the pandemic and protests for racial justice, Dolly made clear where her heart was. “I understand people having to make themselves known and felt and seen,” she said. “And of course Black lives matter. Do we think our little white a**es are the only ones that matter? No!” Dolly also put her money behind her message. After Whitney Houston scored a massive hit with “I Will Always Love You” in the early 1990s, she invested some of her royalties from the song in a Black neighborhood in Nashville, Tennessee.

‘Vivacious’ Dolly Parton never lost sight of her modest Tennessee upbringing, mayor says: ‘Such a treasure’

Dolly Parton, wearing reading glasses and flanked by stacks of books, reads from her book “Coat of Many Colors” to school children at the Library of Congress on Feb. 27, 2018. (Shannon Finney/Getty Images) 

Then there is her Imagination Library, which has reportedly distributed over 300 million books to children around the world since its launch in the late 1980s — an effort Dolly counted as her proudest achievement. It, too, came from the heart of Appalachia, founded to honor her father, who had a story common in the mountains during those times.

Raised in poverty and forced to leave school to help support his family, Robert Lee Parton was unable to read. His daughter, though, was a voracious reader, becoming a champion of Appalachian authors like Adriana Trigiani, Lee Smith and my husband Silas House, and seeing literacy and education as its own kind of salvation.

Here, too, Dolly offered her region a tacit challenge by promoting the education reading can provide and, just as importantly, the empathy it can unlock. As much as she would have likely denied it, putting books in kids’ hands, particularly during a time of increasing book bans, was its own kind of a political act.

Dolly’s final public appearance came in June when, true to her entrepreneurial form, she appeared at the opening of Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop, a Southern-fried truck stop designed to compete with the popular chain Buc-ee’s. Looking at video footage now, there were subtle warning signs of what was to come.

While appearing to be her effervescent self, she was also more supported than usual, assisted to the podium. When she took up the oversized, bedazzled pair of scissors to cut the ribbon, two sturdy men made sure they had a firm hold on her. But she walked offstage to a new jingle that went, “At my Tennessean Truck Stop, everyone belongs.”

While the way much of the region votes may negate this message, there exists a massive minority in Appalachia that has always felt this way — and continues to practice it.

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Appalachians can be a possessive lot, jealous over what and who we consider our own. Dolly was one of us, ours, but of course she was also much more. As much as she belonged to Appalachia, she also belonged to the world. It can’t be an exaggeration to say that tens of millions are grieving her death. Last night, news of her passing was the top story at Germany’s Der Spiegel, and it was among the main headlines on the websites of France’s Le Monde, Nigeria’s Punch News, India’s The Hindu and Japan’s Yomiuri Shimbun. 

Her passing was also felt in the Middle East, where the president’s aimless war against Iran continues. A defense industry source told me that the “shock and grief” of Dolly’s death was so profound that it lit up military communications channels. Service members deployed in the region asked for confirmation that the news was true, and when told it was, they were broken up. Some said it felt as if the light had gone out in the world, just when we needed it most.

That light is what my great-grandmother recognized in Dolly all those years ago. She was Our Lady of the Mountains. Long may she shine — for the best parts of Appalachia, and the best in all of us.

The post Dolly Parton embodied the best parts of Appalachia appeared first on Salon.com.

From wisecracks to music, we remember Dolly Parton’s last concert in Kansas City

Dolly Parton’s Last Concert in Kansas City

Dolly Parton’s final headlining concert in Kansas City took place on July 29, 2016 at the Sprint Center (now T-Mobile Center) as part of her Pure & Simple tour — her 12th and last North American headlining show Yahoo.

The Pure & Simple tour ran from June 3, 2016, in Greensboro, NC, to December 10, 2016, in Thackerville, OK, with over 60 shows across the U.S. and Canada Yahoo. The Kansas City stop was one of the early dates in the tour and was widely praised for its mix of humor, music, and Parton’s many talents.

A Night of Music and Wit

The show drew about 10,000 fans and featured Parton’s signature self-deprecating humor. She opened with a wisecrack about the cost of looking “cheap” and encouraged the audience to spend generously on tickets and merchandise Yahoo.

Parton’s performance was described as “spectacular” — entertaining, funny, poignant, and inspiring — with her voice strong and clean and her ability to play at least 10 instruments by ear Yahoo. She could play guitar, banjo, fiddle, saxophone, autoharp, harmonica, and more, often switching between them during the set.

Setlist Highlights

The Kansas City set included:

• “My Tennessee Mountain”
• “Smoky Mountain Memories”
• A cover of “I’ll Fly Away”
• The spiritual “The Seeker”
• A song about the reclusive mountain man who taught her to play banjo Yahoo

She was backed by a three-piece band: keyboardist Richard Dennison, bassist Tom Rutledge, and guitarist/bandleader Kent Wells. Parton also joked about using a drum machine that cost $47 at Radio Shack to avoid hiring a live drummer Yahoo.

Legacy of the Night

The July 2016 concert is remembered as a defining moment in Parton’s final tour, showcasing her artistry, humor, and generosity. It was a night where music, storytelling, and personal charm blended seamlessly, cementing her status as the “Queen of Country” Yahoo.

Dolly Parton passed away on August 25, 2026, at age 80, after a brief battle with cancer Yahoo+1.

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Born in Tennessee on 19 January 1946, Dolly Parton grew up in a large family and rose from humble beginnings to become one of the world’s most recognizable entertainers. She moved to Nashville after finishing high school and released her debut album, Hello, I’m Dolly, in 1967.

Remembering Dolly Parton: ‘Queen of Country’ has died aged 80 | Watch

While Parton’s songs were recorded by countless other artists, with Whitney Houston’s version of “I Will Always Love You” becoming one of the most successful recordings in music history. Bing Videos

Health struggles before her death

Parton had been increasingly open about her health in recent months.

She cancelled appearances and previously postponed a Las Vegas residency because of health problems, while also speaking about the emotional and physical impact of caring for Carl Dean before his death. In a recent interview, she said she had been dealing with health issues she had neglected while caring for her husband.

Despite those difficulties, she continued to discuss future creative projects and remained determined to work. Now, after nearly 60 years at the centre of the entertainment industry, Dolly Parton’s remarkable journey has come to an end. Her songs, films, businesses and philanthropy ensure that the woman who rose from rural Tennessee to become a global icon will remain part of popular culture for generations to come.

“Dolly Parton – An American Icon”* (Aug. 25) – Search Videos

Dolly Parton dies at 80 | AP News

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Dolly Parton, the country music icon whose soaring vocals, poignant songwriting and sparkling costumes defined her rise from a log cabin in the Tennessee mountains to the height of stardom and acclaim, has died in Nashville. She was 80 years old.

“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer”, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” her publicist, Marcel Pariseau, said in a statement Tuesday.

Known for her curvy physique, massive blond wigs and skin-tight outfits that served her self-deprecating wit, she was among the most beloved personalities in music and beyond — the rare celebrity whose appeal transcended generations, geography and politics.

She wrote hundreds of songs, including classics like “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You,” that totaled more than 100 million worldwide sales and more than 1 billion online streams. Parton, who plucked bejeweled banjos, guitar and dulcimers with her long fingernails during performances, was a generous philanthropist and successful businesswoman whose projects included a theme park in the Smoky Mountain foothills  near her birthplace.

Dolly at Dollywood: A look back at her most memorable park appearances over the decades

One of the Dollywood’s most visited attractions isn’t a roller coaster but a replica of the humble cabin where her family, including 11 siblings, grew up. The cozy cabin is just two rooms and had no running water or electricity.

Her career was influenced by her upbringing as one of 12 children born into what she called a “dirt poor” Tennessee family. She started her education nonprofit, Imagination Library, to send free books to children in Tennessee because her father, who quit school to work on the farm, struggled to learn to read.

Parton’s first musical performances were in church, where her grandfather was a preacher. By age 10, she was learning guitar and singing on local television shows. At 13, she appeared on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, where Johnny Cash introduced her as “a little girl here from up in East Tennessee.”

With a suitcase of songs, she followed her uncle, Bill Owens, also a songwriter, to Nashville after graduating high school in 1964. Fred Foster, who produced Roy Orbison, Willie Nelson and more, saw her potential and got her songs cut by other artists, as well as recording and releasing Parton singing her own material. By the mid-1970s, Parton was a Nashville queen.

A key collaboration launched Parton to fame

Parton’s partnership with Porter Wagoner, a pencil-thin pompadoured star with flashy rhinestone outfits, was key to her career. She honed her acting skills on his syndicated TV show and he advocated for her to get a record deal at RCA. Their first duet, “The Last Thing On My Mind,” was released in 1967, the same year she started her own publishing company.

While their duets were often big radio hits, Parton’s solo singles didn’t chart as high at first. With Wagoner as a co-producer, she began to adjust her country warble to a more polished, pop-leaning style.

She got her first No. 1 solo single with “Joshua,” and reached the Top 5 with the ballad “Coat of Many Colors,” about how her mother sewed together scraps of clothes to make a coat Parton wore “so proudly” even as her peers mocked her for being poor. The song, with its Biblical references and ode to maternal love, was later made into a children’s book and a TV movie.

In 1973, she had the hit that made her career — “Jolene,” a country music standard with its steady, churning rhythm and Parton’s repeated delivery of the title as she pleads for the woman not to steal her man.

The song topped the country charts, crossing over to pop and later being released internationally, opening up new audiences for Parton. “Jolene” is one of her most covered compositions, including by Miley Cyrus (Parton’s goddaughter), Olivia Newton-John and The White Stripes.

She left Wagoner’s show in 1974   

READ MORE: Dolly Parton dies at 80 | AP News

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For God and Country

Jelly Roll & Dolly Parton – One Last Goodbye ( New Country Gospel Song 2026 )

Country music legend Dolly Parton passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. Her nephew and head of security, Bryan Seaver, announced the news on social media, with the family describing her as an enduring inspiration whose music, wit, warmth and kindness touched generations.

Read Dolly Parton’s Family’s Message About Her Death in Full

The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

However, Parton had been dealing with several health challenges in recent months. She had previously spoken about kidney stones, digestive and immune-system problems, as well as complications related to her medications. She had canceled several appearances, including a scheduled Las Vegas residency and a Dollywood appearance after doctors advised her not to travel.

Just days before her death,

Parton spoke publicly about her health, acknowledging that she had been going through difficult times while continuing to work on music and other projects. Despite her struggles, she remained determined to keep creating and connecting with her fans.

Her final public appearance came virtually on August 19, when she accepted the prestigious Poet’s Award at the Academy of Country Music Honors from her home.

Unable to travel because of her health, Parton thanked the Academy and sent a message of love to her fans. Parton’s death comes just over a year after the passing of her husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 after 58 years of marriage. The couple had no children. Parton had previously spoken about how deeply his death affected her and how she continued working while grieving his loss.

Her career spanned more than six decades and produced some of the most recognizable songs in popular music: Including *”Jolene,” “9 to 5,” “Coat of Many Colors” and Her songwriting became legendary, with *”I Will Always Love You”* later becoming a worldwide phenomenon when Whitney Houston recorded it for The Bodyguard*.

Parton also found major success as an actress, starring in films such as *9 to 5 and *Steel Magnolias*, while earning numerous awards and honors throughout her career. Beyond entertainment, Parton built a vast business and philanthropic legacy.

She became the driving force behind Dollywood and founded the Imagination Library, which has distributed millions of books to children around the world. She also contributed to medical research, disaster relief and numerous charitable causes, including a $1 million donation to COVID-19 research that helped support the development of the Moderna vaccine.

Parton had remained remarkably active until the end of her life, with projects including the upcoming Broadway musical *Dolly: A True Original Musical*, as well as other business and entertainment ventures. With a career spanning seven decades, more than 100 million records sold worldwide, countless awards and generations of fans, Dolly Parton leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond country music.

The woman who turned songs of heartbreak, hope and everyday life into timeless classics is gone — but her voice and her stories will continue to live on.

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Fergus Farrell kicked off a cross-country journey by foot at the Brooklyn Bridge on Saturday, August 22, 2026, in New York, NY. (Stephen Yang) Stephen Yang for NY Post

I was told I’d never walk again — now I’m trekking 6 million steps from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Santa Monica Pier

Story by McKenzie Beard

The odds have never meant much to Fergus Farrell. – Search Videos

In 2018, the Irishman was given a 5% chance of ever walking again after a workplace injury left him paralyzed from the rib cage down.

Nearly six years later, after a grueling recovery, he’s hitting the open road for a 3,000-mile trek across the US — entirely on foot.

“If anybody tells me I can’t do something, by God, I’ll do my damndest to do it,” Farrell, 46, told The Post. “It’s all about taking a small step at a time.”

And Farrell has already taken plenty. On the first anniversary of the accident, the Galway native walked across Ireland, ending his journey at the hospital he’d been told he’d likely never move his legs again.

In the years since, Farrell has rowed seven marathons, run four ultramarathons and even attempted to paddle across the Atlantic Ocean in 2022.

Now, the father of three is taking on his biggest feat yet: Six million steps from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Santa Monica Pier in just 75 days.

“When I walk across America, it’s to create awareness for people living with spinal cord injuries, but it’s also for my kids,” said Farrell, who kicked off his mission Saturday. “I want to show them that when you get up and work hard, you can do whatever you want.”

‘Very, very unlucky’

Farrell was overseeing his fleet of 35 buses on Oct. 26, 2018, when he bent down to lift a metal bench and felt a “massive explosion” in his back, dropping him to the ground in pain.

He soon realized he couldn’t feel his legs, and later learned that he had ruptured two discs in his back — one of which had nearly severed his spinal cord completely.

He was airlifted across Ireland to the National Spinal Unit in Dublin, where doctors operated immediately. But when he woke up, he said, “I still couldn’t connect to my feet.”

Farrell was left paralyzed from the ribcage down after a workplace injury. Courtesy of Fergus Farrell

The pain was excruciating. Any feeling from the ribcage down was “completely gone.” Then the surgeon sat down beside him and put a hand on his shoulder.

“I’m sorry, Fergus, but you’ve been very, very unlucky,” Farrell recalled him saying.

The doctor then gave him a stark prognosis: “If you get moving within the next 72 hours, you have a 5% chance of getting some sort of strength back. However, if you don’t get movement after 72 hours, your stats go down to zero. You’ll be wheelchair-bound for life.”

Farrell fights back

For weeks, Farrell still couldn’t budge. Then, on the 21st day after the accident, came a breakthrough: a tiny twitch in his toe.

Ferrell trained for months at a rehabilitation center, determined to recover. Courtesy of Fergus Farrell

Over time, he regained his ability to walk unassisted. Courtesy of Fergus Farrell

“That was a massive moment for me,” he said.

He was transferred to a rehabilitation hospital, where he spent months pushing his body to its limits, constantly in pain and using morphine to get a bit of sleep. But he began to improve: Little by little, movement returned.

Months after arriving, Farrell could shuffle on two feet, but his ability to walk remained limited. When medical staff sat him down to discuss being discharged, they expect him to use a wheelchair in public and have limited mobility at home, aided by grab rails.

“That’s bulls–t,” he remembers thinking.

He went through a dark time during recovery before a week in a psychiatric ward sent him on his current path. Stephen Yang for NY Post

“I said, ‘I’m walking out through those doors.’ I gave myself three weeks,” Farrell said. “During those three weeks, I broke myself, but I broke myself in a great way. I was there to do a job.”

Less than a month later, he left on his own two feet.

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From rock bottom to redemption

Once he returned to Galway, though, he started to feel like a “prisoner” in his own home, restricted to a wheelchair and struggling to navigate the world. His marriage was unraveling, too.

“Have you ever heard that saying, “The empty mind is a dangerous mind?” he said. “When I got home, I was seeing all the negatives rather than the positives.”

He nearly ended his life, saved only by the grace of a “good friend.” He spent a week in a psychiatric ward. “It was the best thing I ever did,” Farrell said. “I found out, for the first time at 39 years of age, who I was, not what I was.”

Fergus Farrell, who was told he would never walk again, is trekking the United States. Farrell plans to begin his walk on August 22 on the Brooklyn Bridge and arrive in Santa Monica around November 5. Nearly 6 years after the accident, Farrell has run marathons and walked across Ireland. Courtesy of Fergus Farrell

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That person? One who excelled in the face of a challenge.

It was then that Farrell, who couldn’t walk more than 300 meters at the time, started training to walk 206 kilometers (128 miles) across Ireland on the first anniversary of his exit from the rehabilitation hospital. Around the same time, he started weaning himself off of morphine, which he’d become addicted to while managing the pain.

“I had to,” he said. “It was either live a life in pain and be myself, or live a life where I don’t know who I am.” Today, Farrell is an inspirational speaker, mental health advocate and devoted father.

He’s taken on athletic challenges that would test even the fittest person — all while living with “24/7 nerve pain.” “I still have a lot of disabilities. I don’t have any reaction skills. I have very poor balance,” he said.

Farrell will attempt to cover roughly 80,000 steps per day. (Stephen Yang) Stephen Yang for NY Post

But he no longer looks at Oct. 26, 2018, as the day his life fell apart.

“If you would have asked me two years after the accident what I thought of it, I would have told you it was one of the worst days of my life,” he said. “Now, if you ask me, it was the best day of my life, because I’m a lot better of a person than I ever was,” he continued. “I value everything I have rather than being envious of what I don’t.”

That outlook is fueling his biggest challenge yet.

For the past 18 months, he has been training for Fergus Walks, a cross-country trek aimed at raising awareness of spinal injuries and money for the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation and Spinal Injuries Ireland.

Farrell’s route will take him through 11 states over 75 days by foot. (Stephen Yang) Stephen Yang for NY Post

Farrell will cross 11 states, slogging through mountains, deserts, prairies and farmland while racking up roughly 80,000 steps a day. But the grueling miles aren’t what he’s most excited about — it’s the Americans he’ll meet along the way.

“Maybe they’ll come have a walk along the road with me,” he said. “I hope they do.”

A crew of volunteers will follow Farrell by car, keeping him supplied with food and water as he makes his way across the country. He’ll mostly bunk in hotels, though in more remote stretches, he’ll camp in a van.

By the time he reaches the West coast, he expects to have burned through eight pairs of shoes. Farrell’s message to others is simple: “Anyone who’s fighting addiction, disability, whatever it may be, just take a small step at a time.”

“All those small steps add up,” he said. “The next thing you know, you’re in a place that you could have never imagined.”

High School Quarterback Sustains Serious Spinal Cord Injury During Game

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The football community is keeping Celina High School quarterback Parker Wynk in its prayers this weekend. Wynk, a senior, suffered a spine injury during Celina’s first game of the 2026 season. He was taken to the hospital after his family said his neck “snapped backwards” after a collision with another player.

According to a post shared in the Bulldogs Friday Night Lights Facebook Group, made up of Celina High School Football parents, Parker was injured during Friday night’s game against St. Henry. “While trying to recover a fumble, Parker collided with another player and his neck snapped backward. He immediately could not move or feel touch on his body.

He could not move on the field, on the way to the hospital, or for some time after we arrived at Coldwater,” the post, shared on behalf of the Wynk family, said. Parker has been able to feel sensations and can make small movements, but he received an injury to his spinal cord, according to the post.

“We are incredibly thankful that there are no broken bones or vertebrae and Parker’s brain is 100% okay. But his spinal cord has been injured, and right now we simply do not know what that will mean for his future,” the post read.

When the collision initially occurred, Wynk had no feeling in his body. Thankfully, he’s starting to regain feeling in his arms, hands and feet. A neurosurgeon informed the family that Parker has a congenitally narrow spinal canal, which means there isn’t much space to cushion his spinal cord.

“We are incredibly thankful that there are no broken bones or vertebrae and Parker’s brain is 100% okay. But his spinal cord has been injured, and right now we simply do not know what that will mean for his future,” his family wrote.

“Please join us in praying specifically for Parker’s spinal cord to heal, for movement and feeling to return throughout his entire body, for the burning and pain to subside, and for strength physically, mentally and emotionally as he faces whatever comes next.”

The Celina community is rallying around the Wynk family.

It was announced on Facebook that Celina First Church of God is holding a prayer service for the Wynk family this Saturday night. “The Wynks call Celina First home. They are part of our church family, and when one of our own is hurting, this is how the Church responds: we gather, we surround them, and we pray,” the post read.

“They have asked us to join them in praying for Parker’s full and complete healing, and we want to invite anyone in our community to stand with them.” The Wynk family continues to ask the community to pray for Parker’s full and complete healing.

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Fenbendazole is commonly taken with fatty meals

Liver support is frequently discussed

Long term use and monitoring are commonly emphasized ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

WHAT MAKES THIS PROTOCOL DIFFERENT? It’s not simply the dosages. It’s the idea behind them. Dr. Makis argues that cancer isn’t one disease. A patient in remission is different from a patient with widespread metastatic disease. A slow growing cancer is different from an aggressive one. And because of that, many people believe a one size fits all approach may not always make sense. That’s one reason why interest in repurposed medicines continues to grow.

Researchers have spent years investigating how compounds like Ivermectin and Fenbendazole may interact with: • Cancer metabolism • Cancer stem cells • Mitochondrial function • Tumor signaling pathways • Treatment resistance mechanisms • Cellular energy production Whether these findings ultimately change clinical practice remains to be seen. But one thing is undeniable: More cancer patients, caregivers, and researchers are discussing repurposed medicines today than ever before. And that’s exactly why charts like this keep getting shared.

Save this chart now. Six months from now, you’ll wish you knew where to find it. Repost it so more people researching cancer protocols can see it. Have you been following Dr. William Makis’ work on Ivermectin and Fenbendazole? Many people researching Ivermectin and Fenbendazole have discovered @rxmeds_store.

(1) Andrew Panella on X: “Dr. William Makis MD. His anti-cancer protocols have potentially cured thousands of patients… But Big Pharma can’t profit from his methods so they suppress him. Here are his top 7 methods to fight cancer and protocols for each stage of it (bookmark this):  https://t.co/PRtC6EgzoM” / X

DR. WILLIAMMAKIS HAS PUBLICLY SHARED THE ALTERNATIVE CANCER PROTOCOL HE SAYS HE’S USING, AND IT’S SPARKING DEBATE ACROSS THE WORLD. Rather than relying on a single treatment, Dr. Makis combines repurposed medicines, targeted bioactive compounds, and immune support into one comprehensive protocol. The protocol cites published studies alongside several recommendations and is designed, according to Dr. Makis, to target cancer through multiple biological pathways. Core Repurposed Medicines Ivermectin • 1.5 mg/kg/day • Once daily with food • Split into doses of 12 mg or less at a time • Reference: Zhou (2021) Fenbendazole • 1,500 mg/day • Split into two daily doses • Reference: Park (2021) Modified Citrus Pectin • 15 g/day • One-third scoop mixed with water or juice • Taken three times daily with food Optional Bioactive Compounds Black Seed Oil (Thymoquinone): 2,000 mg/day (split doses, empty stomach) Berberine: 1,000 mg/day (split into two doses with food) Olive Leaf Extract (Oleuropein): 1,000 mg/day (split into two doses with food) Immune Support Vitamin D3 – 20,000 IU daily Vitamin K2 – 100 mcg daily Turkey Tail Mushroom – 1,000 mg/day with food

According to Dr. Makis, the goal isn’t to rely on a single medicine.

It’s to combine therapies that may work through different biological mechanisms as part of an integrated strategy. Whether you agree with this approach or not, protocols centered on Ivermectin and Fenbendazole have become some of the most discussed topics in repurposed medicine, with growing interest from patients, physicians, and researchers alike. One question remains… If low cost generic medicines show enough promise for physicians to build protocols around them, should they receive the same level of scientific investigation as expensive patented drugs? What’s your opinion?

Knowledge only has value when it’s shared. Save this protocol and send it to someone researching Ivermectin, Fenbendazole, or alternative cancer protocols.

If you’re looking for pharmaceutical grade Ivermectin, Fenbendazole, or Mebendazole, visit @rxmeds_store.

RXMEDS.STORE on X: “🚨 ONE DEWORMER. 20+ CANCER TYPES. WHY IS FENBENDAZOLE GETTING SO MUCH ATTENTION? Fenbendazole is widely known as a benzimidazole class antiparasitic drug used in veterinary medicine. But this graphic highlights a very different area of interest https://t.co/YA2pSui9Je” / X

(1) Joe smart on X: “ DR. WILLIAM MAKIS: ONE IVERMECTIN DOSING FRAMEWORK IS GETTING SERIOUS ATTENTION According to Dr. William Makis, the dosing framework he discusses for repurposed cancer research is built around weight based dosing, with 1 mg/kg/day highlighted as a key starting point. His” / X

Lauren Hayes 

Commentary account I paid $78 for 100 pills of ivermectin 12 mg. Ivermectin saved my mom from cancer. Got it from https://twitter.com/safehealthpill1

Medeea Greere on X: “🔥💣 DR. WILLIAM MAKIS: THE CANCER BREAKTHROUGH THEY DON’T WANT TO TALK ABOUT — Ivermectin, Fenbendazole & the Truth They Buried 🇺🇸 🔥Oncologist Dr. William Makis is igniting massive controversy after claiming that low-cost antiparasitic drugs https://t.co/GtzeubjaA0” / X

Dr. Kathy D. Miller, MD on X: “IVERMECTIN:A POTENTIAL CANCER FIGHTER IVM is proving to be up to 7 times more effective than conventional treatments in disrupting cancer’s survival mechanisms. With just a single dose,it strikes cancer cells through multiple pathways and helps block the formation of tumors https://t.co/1LclikNtof” / X

Ivermectin Clinic in Florida – Search Ivermectin Clinic in Florida – Search Videos

Ivermectin for Autoimmune Disease and Arthritis Ivermectin’s HIDDEN Potential in Cancer and Autoimmunity #Ivermectin #Fenbendazole #CancerResearch #CancerProtocol #RepurposedDrugs #WilliamMakis #RxMeds

Joy Ryan becomes the oldest woman to explore all 63 national parks in the U,S,

Ryan, 93, has become the oldest woman to visit every national park in America. Proving Age is just a number, and Joy Ryan has just proved the fact! 

This cute grandma was not alone in her journey as her 42-year-old grandson Brad Ryan accompanied her to all 63 national parks in the country and today, both of them are enjoying an internet celebrity status.

Joy Ryan and Brad Ryan Complete Historic 63-Park Journey

Joy Ryan, 93, and her grandson Brad Ryan have completed their mission to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks, finishing the trip in the National Park of American Samoa in the South Pacific after seven and a half years CNN+1.

The Journey

The adventure began in October 2015 when Brad, a veterinarian from Duncan Falls, Ohio, took his grandmother to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park after learning she had never seen mountains, oceans, or deserts CBS News+1. Inspired by her love of travel and his own desire to share the world’s wonders with her, Brad started planning a loop of parks, eventually raising funds through a GoFundMe to cover the costs CNN.

Over the years, they traveled more than 50,000 miles, visiting iconic destinations from the Grand Canyon to the Channel Islands, the Redwoods to the Virgin Islands www.traveller365.com. Along the way, they documented their travels on their Instagram account  the @grandmajoysroadtrip sharing photos, stories, and the deep bond between them abcnews.com.

A Bittersweet Finale

Their final stop, the National Park of American Samoa, was both a milestone and a poignant moment. Brad said the achievement was “bittersweet,” coming just over a week after the passing of his father and Joy’s eldest son abcnews.com. The park, the only U.S. national park south of the equator, spans seven villages and offers them a chance to reflect on their journey.

Recognition and Legacy

At the park, Joy and Brad were honored by the National Park Service with certificates and gifts commemorating their historic feat. Joy became the oldest person to visit every U.S. National Park, defying assumptions about age limits and inspiring others to pursue their dreams CNN+1.

Brad described the trip as a “grand adventure” and a testament to the power of passion, intention, and the unbreakable bond between a grandmother and her grandson abcnews.com+1. Joy herself called it “a beautiful, beautiful time” and said she wouldn’t trade it for anything abcnews.com.

Their story has been featured on ABC News, Good Morning America, CBS News, and other outlets, resonating with audiences worldwide for its mix of adventure, resilience, and family love www.traveller365.com.

More Photos on Instagram here.

Brad Ryan and his grandmother Joy Ryan set out on a journey to visit all 63 national parks seven and a half years ago. This week they completed their goal when they arrived at the National Park of American Samoa.

“The National Park of American Samoa is the only U.S. national park south of the equator and our most remote park,” Ryan posted on the Grandma Joy’s Road Trip Instagram page created to document their travels. “It was a long road to get here, but we couldn’t have chosen a more epic place to conclude this epic chapter of Grandma Joy’s Road Trip!”

Joy Ryan — known worldwide as “Grandma Joy” — and her grandson Brad Ryan did complete their quest to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks, and the journey took about seven and a half years, beginning in October 2015 and ending in May 2023 at the National Park of American Samoa.

Their accomplishment is remarkable not only because Joy was 93 years old, making her the oldest person ever to visit all 63 parks, but also because the journey became a story of healing, reconnection, and adventure.

 What Their Journey Included

• Start: Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee), October 2015
• End: National Park of American Samoa, May 16, 2023
• Total Parks: 63
• Duration: ~7.5 years
• Joy’s Age at Completion: 93
• Activities: Mountain climbing, white‑water rafting (at age 91!), zip‑lining, hiking, wildlife viewing, and thousands of miles of road‑tripping.

 Why Their Story Matters

Their national‑park quest began as a simple attempt to help Joy see her first mountain. It grew into a transformative experience that helped Brad recover from depression and helped both of them repair a long‑strained relationship. Their travels became widely followed through @grandmajoysroadtrip on Instagram and inspired a book, Grandma Joy and Me.

 If you want, I can map out all 63 parks in the order they visited them, or break down their route by region. Here’s a full chronological map, a regional breakdown, or a summary of their iconic moments?

 Timeline Overview (2015 – 2023)

Year	Parks Visited	Highlights
2015	1 – 3	Began at Great Smoky Mountains, Joy’s first mountain experience.
2016	4 – 10	Explored Midwestern parks like Cuyahoga Valley and Indiana Dunes.
2017	11 – 18	First major western road trip — Badlands, Yellowstone, Grand Teton.
2018	19 – 27	Southwest adventure: Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches.
2019	28 – 36	Pacific coast stretch: Redwoods, Crater Lake, Olympic, Channel Islands.
2020	37 – 45	Rocky Mountain circuit — Glacier, Grand Canyon of the Rockies, Mesa Verde.
2021	46 – 54	Hawaii parks and Virgin Islands — oceanic milestones.
2022	55 – 62	Alaska expedition, visiting all eight parks there.
2023	63	Final stop: National Park of American Samoa, completing the journey.

 Thematic Layers

• Connection: Rebuilding family bonds through shared adventure.
• Resilience: Joy’s age defied limits; Brad’s healing mirrored the landscapes.
• Legacy: Their story inspired millions to rediscover nature and kinship.

Would you like me to design this as a vertical illustrated timeline, a poster‑style infographic, or a digital scrolling version?

Here’s a regional breakdown of Joy and Brad Ryan’s journey through all 63 U.S. National Parks. Their route spanned every corner of the system, grouped by geography:

 Eastern & Midwest (2015–2016)

• Great Smoky Mountains (start, Oct 2015)
• Shenandoah, Cuyahoga Valley, Indiana Dunes
• Smaller eastern gems like Acadia and Mammoth Cave

 Southwest & Desert Parks (2017–2018)

• Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon
• Arches, Canyonlands, Petrified Forest
• Big Bend, Carlsbad Caverns

 Pacific Coast (2019)

• Redwood, Crater Lake, Olympic
• Channel Islands, Sequoia, Yosemite

 Rockies & Northern Plains (2020)

• Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Glacier
• Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, Badlands

 Islands & Tropics (2021)

• Hawai‘i Volcanoes, Haleakalā
• Virgin Islands, Dry Tortugas, Everglades

 Alaska Expedition (2022)

• All 8 Alaska parks: Denali, Gates of the Arctic, Katmai, Wrangell–St. Elias, Kenai Fjords, Lake Clark, Kobuk Valley, Glacier Bay

 Finale (2023)

• National Park of American Samoa — their 63rd and final park, May 2023.

Would you like me to create a visual timeline poster showing these regions in sequence, or a ranked scenic highlights list to spotlight the most photogenic stops?

America The Beautiful Pass List of National Parks PDF File

How Old is the USA? A Complete Timeline of American History – USA Heaven

Climate change is affecting national parks much more than the rest of the US

  Based on multiple expert rankings and travel sources, here’s a consolidated Top 10 Most Scenic U.S. National Parks — the ones Joy and Brad Ryan visited that consistently stand out for sheer visual impact:  

• Yosemite and Yellowstone are universally ranked #1–2 for scenery.
• Grand Canyon offers unmatched desert drama.
• Glacier and Grand Teton deliver alpine perfection.
• Olympic and Acadia add coastal diversity.
• Zion and Arches showcase Utah’s red rock majesty.
• Rocky Mountain rounds out the list with classic alpine landscapes.

This guide highlights 30 U.S. national parks with diverse landscapes, from waterfalls to desert vistas, offering options beyond the top 10 for travelers seeking varied scenic experiences.    The 30 Most Beautiful National Parks to Hike in: Best of 2026  

Joy Ryan, 94, As Now They Start Out on Their Seven Continent Quest

Joy Ryan, now 94, is one of the most inspiring travelers of her generation — and she’s just reached the halfway mark of a bold new mission with her grandson, Brad Ryan.

From National Parks to the World

Joy, a widow and retiree from Duncan Falls, Ohio, had lived most of her life in the same house, rarely traveling beyond her hometown. She didn’t get her first passport until age 91, after visiting the National Park of American Samoa in 2023, which made her the oldest person to have seen all 63 U.S. national parks People+1. That trip was sparked by a simple invitation from Brad, who wanted to reconnect with her after years apart. Their first shared adventure — hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains at age 85 — planted the seed for a lifelong travel partnership People+1.

The Seven Continents Mission

After conquering the U.S. parks, Joy and Brad set their sights on visiting every continent together. They’ve already completed four: Europe, South America, Australia, and Antarctica People+1. Their next stops include Asia, Africa, and possibly the Arctic Circle seniorstrustnetwork.org.

How They Travel

The duo has evolved from camping on a budget to using corporate sponsorships and guided expeditions. They’ve braved everything from polar expeditions in Antarctica to wildlife-rich destinations like the Galápagos and Banff National Park AFAR+1. Each trip is about embracing the moment — whether it’s spotting brown bears in Alaska, hiking in Chile, or marveling at penguins in the southernmost continent People+1.

Why It Matters

For Joy, the goal is more than a travel record — it’s about proving that adventure has no expiration date. Brad says their journeys have strengthened their bond, inspired others, and shown that age shouldn’t limit dreams The Happy Broadcast. Joy’s mantra is to “jump in the river and be positive” when faced with challengesFox News.

  National Parks grandma: Grandson and 93-year-old Joy Ryan visit all 63 U.S. National Parks ending in American Samoa – CBS News  

An Ohio native and his grandma took on every national park – and their distant relationship | WYSO

93-year-old grandmother and grandson finish quest to visit all 63 national parks – ABC News

Joy Ryan, 93, is the oldest woman to visit every U.S. national park – VPM

This Celtic Melody Is Absolutely Mind-Blowing… Wait For The End!  | Celtic Song

Oh Lord ! its Pacific Coast Highway in 1956 | A day of Freedom | doo-wop Song !

Take us back to Rocky Mountains 1957: American Road Trip | doo-wop Melody !

A Complete List Of Every National Park In America

The 12 best national parks to visit in retirement

Diet After Open Heart Surgery: A Guide From A Heart Dietitian – The Heart Dietitian

Rapid Weight Loss After Open Heart Surgery: A Guide to Safe and Sustainable Recovery – Nutriphy

After open-heart surgery, it is crucial to follow a strict diet plan provided by a doctor or dietitian to ensure a smooth recovery and maintain cardiovascular health. This involves consuming a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meat, low-fat dairy, and omega-3 fatty acids, while limiting saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, and processed foods. Regular exercise and quitting smoking are also recommended to complement the diet and reduce the risk of future heart problems.  

Include whole grains, fruits and vegetables

Following open-heart surgery, it is important to follow a strict diet plan provided by a surgeon or dietitian to ensure a safe recovery. This diet plan will typically include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which are known to have numerous health benefits.

Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber, which helps to maintain a healthy digestive system and manage weight. They also keep the heart healthy by controlling weight gain. Examples of whole grains that can be included in meals are brown rice, quinoa, wild rice, whole-wheat pasta, non-processed oats, and 100% whole-grain bread. These should be chosen over refined carbohydrates such as white bread and other sweet foods.

Fruits and vegetables are rich in vital nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, all of which are essential for cardiovascular health and tissue repair. They also strengthen the immune system and help reduce inflammation, which is crucial after heart surgery. It is recommended to consume fresh fruits and vegetables, as canned fruits have been associated with an increased risk of mortality.

In addition to whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, a heart-healthy diet should also include lean meat, low-fat dairy, omega-3 fatty acids, and unsaturated fats. It is important to limit saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, and processed foods. Regular exercise, smoking cessation, and moderate alcohol consumption are also recommended for a healthy recovery and to prevent future heart problems.

It is important to note that dietary guidelines may vary depending on individual health needs, and specific recommendations should be discussed with a doctor or dietitian. ~  Search Images

Bonus VIDEO 12: Diet After Open Heart Surgery: What to Eat What Not to Eat to keep yourself healthy?

Eating Smart: The 80/20 Diet Explained

Gastrointestinal Symptoms After Open Heart Surgery at 5 Weeks

Yes, excessive gas and loss of appetite are common after open heart surgery, occurring in up to 57% of patients, and the patient should be seeing their cardiac surgeon or cardiologist for evaluation, with potential referral to a gastroenterologist if symptoms persist or worsen.

How Common Are These Symptoms?

Gastrointestinal symptoms after cardiac surgery are well-documented and significant. Research shows that 57% of patients report poor appetite and 37% experience lack of taste during the immediate postoperative period 1. While the frequency of GI symptoms typically decreases over time, 19% of patients still report poor appetite at 6 weeks post-discharge 1. This aligns precisely with your relative’s timeline.

The underlying mechanisms include:

• Reduced gastrointestinal perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass
• Gastroparesis and intestinal dysmotility from surgical stress
• Medication effects, particularly from antiarrhythmic agents, diuretics, and pain medications
• Inflammatory response that persists for weeks after surgery 2

Immediate Management Steps

Dietary Modifications

The patient should implement small, frequent meals (4-6 times daily) with high-protein content, taking small bites and chewing thoroughly 3. This eating pattern helps accommodate reduced gastric motility and prevents overwhelming the digestive system.

Specific recommendations:

• Avoid high-fiber foods initially that can worsen gas and bloating 3
• Separate liquids from solids by at least 30 minutes to reduce gastric distention 3
• Reduce dietary lactose, fat, and fiber if diarrhea or flatulence is prominent 3
• Increase fluid intake to at least 1.5 liters daily to prevent dehydration, which is common and dangerous 3

Monitoring for Serious Complications

While most GI symptoms are benign, gastrointestinal complications after cardiac surgery carry mortality rates of 34-87% when serious pathology develops 4,5,6. The patient needs evaluation if experiencing:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Bloody stools or vomiting
• Inability to tolerate any oral intake
• Signs of dehydration (decreased urine output, dizziness)
• Fever or worsening symptoms

Which Doctor to See

The patient should first contact their cardiac surgeon or cardiologist 7. At 5 weeks post-surgery, the patient should still be under active cardiac follow-up for:

• Cardiac and fluid status monitoring, as heart failure can manifest with GI symptoms 8
• Medication review, since antiarrhythmic agents and diuretics are associated with nausea and appetite loss 1
• Assessment for surgical complications that may present with GI symptoms 5,6

If symptoms persist despite initial management or worsen, referral to a gastroenterologist is warranted for evaluation of:

• Gastroparesis or intestinal dysmotility
• Medication-induced GI dysfunction
• Need for prokinetic agents (medications that stimulate gut motility) 8

Consider Nutritional Support

If the patient cannot achieve adequate oral nutrition, referral to a dietitian is essential 9. Studies show that patients after major surgery often have inadequate protein (90%) and energy intake (82%) in the postoperative period 9. At 5 weeks, continued poor intake risks:

• Progressive weight loss (common after cardiac surgery) 2
• Muscle weakness and functional decline 2
• Delayed recovery and increased complications

Oral nutritional supplements may be necessary if food intake remains inadequate 9,10, though compliance can be challenging due to taste issues and bloating.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don’t dismiss these symptoms as “normal” without proper evaluation—while common, they require active management
• Don’t allow dehydration to develop—this is a frequent cause of emergency room visits and can be prevented 3
• Don’t assume all GI symptoms are benign—serious complications like bowel ischemia, though rare (0.5-5.5% incidence), are life-threatening 4,5,6
• Don’t overlook depression, which is associated with all GI symptoms after cardiac surgery 1

Expected Timeline

Most patients see gradual improvement over 2-6 months post-surgery 1,11. However, active intervention with dietary modifications, adequate hydration, and medical follow-up can accelerate recovery and prevent complications.

5 Essential Ways to Care for Your Health After Cardiac Surgery | Recovery Tips from a Heart Surgeon

Rapid Weight Loss After Open Heart Surgery: A Guide to Safe and Sustainable Recovery – Nutriphy

Diet After Open Heart Surgery|Foods To Eat & Foods to Avoid After Open Heart Surgery

Diet After Open Heart Surgery: A Guide From A Heart Dietitian – The Heart Dietitian

Heart Health: 5 Simple Cardio Habits That Boost Longevity & Stamina Naturally

The Truth About Low Carb vs High Protein After 60 | Which Plate Wins? @DrJanineBowring 

The world’s oldest person, British woman Ethel Caterham,

Has celebrated her 117th birthday, marking a historic milestone as she becomes the first person from Britain ever verified to reach that age while continuing to live a quiet life at a care home in Surrey.According to Guinness World Records, Ethel Caterham, born on 21 August 1909, is the first-ever Brit to reach the age of 117.

Ben Meyers, CEO of LongeviQuest, said, “Her longevity is becoming truly historic, especially in terms of the UK. After becoming the first British person to reach age 116 a year ago, she is now the first British person to reach 117. “She is consistently adding to her British longevity record, which was previously set by Charlotte Hughes, who passed away in 1993.

BIOGRAPHY

EARLY LIFE

Caterham was born in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, England, on 21 August 1909, and grew up in Tidworth, Wiltshire. She was the second youngest of eight children born to Alfred Collins (1866-1927) and Fanny Shears (1867-1951).

Her oldest brother, Norman (July 1896 – 10 August 1915), was killed, aged 19, in Gallipoli during World War I, whilst her older sister, Gladys Babilas (21 December 1897 – 9 March 2002), lived to be 104 years, 78 days old, making them the 2nd oldest sibling pair ever from the UK.

During the 1910’s, Caterham and her family lived simple lives, with no electricity or running water. They grew their own vegetables and kept chickens for eggs. In 1927, at the age of 18, she travelled to India to work as a nanny for a British family.

Drawn by the allure of adventure and world travel, she made the three-week trip by ship. Reflecting on that time, she fondly recalled her experiences in India as the “amongst the happiest times of my life”. She commented that they were waited on by servants and embraced both British traditions like Christmas and Indian customs, such as Tiffin and Tea.

She remained in India until 1931, when she returned to Shipton Bellinger. It was upon her return that she met her future husband, Norman Caterham, a major in the British army, at a small dinner party hosted by a school friend.

MARRIED LIFE

The Caterham’s married at Salisbury cathedral, where Norman used to be a choir boy. The couple initially lived in Harnham, near Salisbury, where they welcomed their first daughter, Ethel, in July 1933. In 1935, after Norman rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Royal Army Pay Corps, they re-located to Gibraltar where he was stationed. Whilst in Gibraltar, they welcomed their second daughter, Ann, in March 1937. The family returned to the UK in 1938, living in Surrey.

The Caterham’s re-located once again in 1957, when Norman’s career resulted in him being stationed in Hong Kong. Caterham later reflected that similar to her experiences in India, living in Hong Kong was another very happy period in her life. Whilst in Hong Kong, she established a nursery for both local and British children, where she taught English, games and crafts. Upon Norman’s retirement in 1960, the couple returned to the UK, once again settling in Surrey.

During Norman’s retirement the pair enjoyed travelling, visiting countries such as Canada, South Africa, the USA and Sri Lanka. Sadly, after 43 years of marriage, Caterham was widowed when Norman died suddenly on 25 August 1976.

LATER LIFE

After her husband passed away, Caterham, then aged 67, having inherited his Triumph Dolomite, learnt to drive, which she continued to do until the age of 97. During her widowhood, she kept busy by gardening, walking her dogs and socialising with friends. It was during this time that she became a regular bridge player, a hobby she continued into her centenarian years.

Caterham continued to live independently until past the age of 100, until around the age of 107 she moved into an Annex of her daughter Ann’s house. She outlived both of her daughters; Ethel Jr. passed away in January 2005 aged 71, whilst Ann died from cancer in February 2020, aged 82. It was after Ann’s death that she moved to a care home in spring 2020. Upon the home’s closure in November 2023, she moved once again to a care home in Lightwater, Surrey.

In 2020, at the age of 110, Caterham contracted Covid-19, during the coronavirus pandemic, however having no major symptoms, she successfully recovered, making her one of the oldest known survivors of the disease.

Since turning 111 in August 2020, Caterham’s birthday parties have become national and worldwide news. For her 111th birthday, she was interviewed by BBC Radio Surrey, whilst for her 112th she was taken to a local hotel for an afternoon tea.

Her 115th and 116th birthdays, celebrations, complete with balloons, cake and professional entertaining, were held at her care home. To commemorate Ethel’s remarkable milestone of turning 115, the care home team renovated a section of the garden and renamed it “Ethel’s garden”.

Since then, they have also renamed the area outside her room, where she loves to sit in the sun, “Ethel’s patio”. At the age of 117, Ethel, who has 3 granddaughters and 5 great-grandchildren, remains in good health. She enjoys participating in the many activities organised by her care home, which have included attending a party celebrating the home’s 10th anniversary.

World’s oldest person Ethel Caterham becomes first-ever Brit to reach age 117 | Guinness World Records

When asked about the keys to her longevity, she said: “Say yes to every opportunity, because you never know what it will lead to. Have a positive mental attitude and have everything in moderation”.

THE OLDER YOU GET, THE MORE THIS SONG WILL MEAN 

Ethel Caterham – The Oldest Person Alive #history #titanic #ww1 # ww II

Ethel Caterham: A Life Through Time