Exclusive: Thomas Markle Snr to Receive Prosthetic Leg Soon, Son Reveals
In an exclusive update, Thomas Markle Jnr has disclosed that his father, Thomas Markle Snr, is in line to be fitted for a prosthetic leg "pretty soon". The 81-year-old father of the Duchess of Sussex has been undergoing intensive therapy and rehabilitation since his left leg was amputated below the knee in a critical three-hour operation in December.
Life-Saving Operation and Ongoing Recovery
Thomas Markle Snr nearly died in December when a massive blood clot in his left thigh severely restricted blood flow to his foot, necessitating emergency surgery to save his life. The former Hollywood lighting director fell ill at his home in the Philippines, leading to the "life or death" amputation procedure.
His son, Thomas Markle Jnr, who serves as his full-time carer, provided details on the recovery process. "He's going through therapy. He's going through physical rehab. We're going to have to get him fitted for a prosthetic here pretty soon and get that man walking again. That's the goal. That's the priority," he stated.
Claims of Estrangement and Lack of Support
Thomas Markle Jnr also asserted that Meghan Markle has not spoken to their father or provided any financial assistance for his medical care since the operation. Despite representatives of the Duchess previously claiming she had "reached out" after the surgery, including sending a letter to his hospital bedside via US embassy officials, Thomas Jnr insists no direct contact or monetary help has been offered.
"It's just mind-boggling how you could just continue to walk through life and not even give the man a phone call and pay for the best medical care that dad needs right now," he expressed, noting that their father's health insurance does not cover the full costs of his care.
Background and Recent Moves
Thomas Markle Snr, who has a history of health issues including two heart attacks and a stroke, relocated from Rosarito, Mexico, to Cebu in the Philippines last year. He and his son had been living in a high-rise apartment before moving to more affordable accommodation just days prior to his hospitalisation. The move was prompted after Thomas Snr found himself trapped on the 19th floor during an earthquake.
The estrangement between Meghan and her father dates back to 2018, when he was forced to withdraw from walking her down the aisle at her wedding to Prince Harry due to health concerns and a controversy over staged paparazzi photos. A heated phone call with Harry while Thomas Snr was recovering in hospital further strained relations.
Personal Support and Future Hopes
Thomas Markle Jnr credits his 28-year-old Filipino girlfriend, Rose, with providing crucial support in caring for his father. In a recent video on his YouTube channel, he made a pointed remark directed at Meghan: "I hope next time, Meghan, that you see a disabled person or somebody who has only one leg. I hope you think real hard."
As Thomas Markle Snr continues his rehabilitation, the focus remains on his recovery and adaptation to a prosthetic leg, amidst ongoing family tensions and financial challenges.
