Meghan Markle Reaches Out to Father After Critical Surgery

Meghan Markle has contacted her estranged father, Thomas Markle, following his emergency hospitalization and subsequent surgery. The 79-year-old was admitted after experiencing severe health complications, which led to the amputation of his left leg below the knee due to a life-threatening blood clot. Thomas Markle fell ill at his home in the Philippines and was rushed to the hospital where doctors determined that immediate surgery was necessary to save his life.

According to reports, the surgery lasted three hours and was crucial in preventing fatal complications. A representative for the Duchess of Sussex confirmed that she has reached out to her father during this challenging time. His son, Thomas Markle Jr., provided further details, stating, “I was told the leg had to be removed, and it was a case of life or death. One of his doctors said the next two or three days are critical.”

Doctors are now monitoring Mr. Markle closely for any signs of infection, such as sepsis or gangrene. His family has requested privacy as he continues to receive intensive medical care.

Background on Thomas Markle’s Health Issues

Mr. Markle has faced numerous health challenges in recent years. He suffered two heart attacks just before his daughter’s wedding to Prince Harry at St George’s Chapel in Windsor in May 2018, which prevented him from attending the ceremony. During that time, King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, walked Meghan partway down the aisle in his absence.

In 2022, Mr. Markle experienced a stroke that left him unable to speak for several months. Although he regained some speech through extensive therapy, his overall health has continued to deteriorate. He has never met his grandchildren, Prince Archie, aged six, and Princess Lilibet, aged four, and he has been estranged from Meghan since the royal wedding.

The rift in their relationship began after Thomas Markle staged paparazzi photographs prior to the wedding, which Meghan viewed as a betrayal. Following a heated phone call with Harry while Thomas was recovering in the hospital, Meghan decided to cut off communication. Mr. Markle later expressed his distress over the conversation, stating, “I felt disrespected by them. I was recovering from a heart attack, lying in a bed, having a phone call, and the things being said that hurt me.”

Despite the estrangement, Thomas Markle has maintained that his “only wish is to see my grandchildren before I die.” As he faces this latest health crisis, the family dynamics remain complex, with Meghan’s outreach signaling a possible shift in their relationship.

As Thomas Markle battles his health issues, the coming days will be critical for his recovery. The public continues to watch this family saga unfold, marked by significant personal and emotional challenges.