In early 2017, country legend Loretta Lynn suffered a stroke that left her fighting for her life. The 87-year-old singer, known for hits like "Coal Miner's Daughter" and "You Ain't Woman Enough," spent three months in the hospital and at a rehabilitation centre.
Update Alert - Loretta Has Made A Statement
"Thank you so much for all of your prayers, love, and support," Lynn wrote at the time. "I'm happy to say that I'm at home with my family and getting better by the day."
Although Lynn was expected to make a full recovery, she never bounced back fully. She did regain her speech and motor skills, but another health setback a few months later took a toll on her well-being.
In January 2018, Lynn suffered a fall at home and the impact resulted in a fractured hip. This accident left with limited mobility. She started to rely on a walker and a wheelchair to get around.
The side effects of the stroke on her memory also manifest often.
“Every now and then, I’ll look around and think of my home and I’ll say, ‘Am I at the ranch?’ And [my daughter] Patsy will say, ‘No, Momma, you’re here in Kingston Springs.’ And it’ll kinda bring me back to reality," Lynn told People in 2018.
The country singer gave her fans hope when she revealed that she wants to tour again, but a new report from RadarOnline indicates otherwise.
According to the celebrity news outlet, Lynn's condition has taken a turn for the worse. Her family are reportedly preparing to relocate her to a nursing home where she will spend her final days.
“It’s so sad to see Loretta breaking down,” a source close to the singer told RadarOnline. In addition to requiring assistance with walking, Lynn also reportedly "suffers from glaucoma, so her vision is severely compromised."
“Loretta already has in-house nursing care, and of course, her four kids are there with her most every day. But there’s still a fear that another fall is going to kill her, and she would be better off in a facility where she can be monitored at all times,” the source added.
The insider also revealed that Lynn's close friends, including fellow country stars Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton, are making plans to visit her "before it’s too late."
Despite her failing health, Lynn still believes that she will be back on stage to perform.
"She talks to them about booking some concert dates. But of course, with her health and how unsteady she is on her feet, it’s just an impossibility. It allows Loretta to still hope – even though it’s becoming clear the end is near."
Lynn's family have not released a statement addressing the recent reports about her declining health. The singer's last appearance was in April at an all-star tribute concert in Nashville to celebrate her 87th birthday.