Dolly Parton’s Hospital: A Generational Gift!

put some of her $450 million fortune to good use when she made a donation to East Children's Hospital in Knoxville, TN which was so massive that they renamed the entire facility, Dolly Parton Children's Hospital.

'What I can tell you is that she has made a generational and transformational commitment to Children's and its mission,' president and CEO Matt Schaefer told Chief Healthcare Executive on Monday.

'And that commitment is something that goes beyond our wildest expectations, that is beyond generous, and will be a lifeline for this mission for now and for years to come. And we're excited about and humbled by her willingness to do so.'

Schaefer is excited to use the 80-year-old country legend's undisclosed amount to recruit more clinicians, build on fundraising, and invest in people, programs and technology for the 89-year-old, not-for-profit pediatric hospital.

'I've been in a position to do my part to help others. I have tried to do just that, especially when children and families need it most,' Parton said in a February 26 video.

'I've always believed that every child deserves a fair chance to grow up healthy, hopeful and surrounded with love. Now, that belief is what brought me together with the incredible folks at East Tennessee Children's Hospital.'

The national treasure - who's only a Tony Award away from EGOT status - grew up in the mountains of East Tennessee 'surrounded with my family and people who believed in love and faith, music and taking care of one another.'

'And these experiences help shape who I am and what I believe in. Now, I learned these lessons early, and they've stayed with me ever since,' Parton said.

'In addition to expert care, children need hope. They need comfort and they need to know that they are seen and valued. And together, we're committed to strengthening a relationship where world-class care and a caring heart go hand in hand for children across East Tennessee and beyond.'

Schaefer is excited to use the 80-year-old country legend's undisclosed amount to recruit more clinicians, build on fundraising, and invest in people, programs and technology for the 89-year-old, not-for-profit pediatric hospital (pictured in 2012)