Thomas Markle, the estranged father of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, has spoken publicly for the first time since undergoing a life-saving leg amputation in early December. The 81-year-old, who now lives in the Philippines, described the three-hour surgery as a 'life or death' decision and said he is 'adjusting slowly' to his new circumstances.
In an interview with The Mail on Sunday, Mr Markle expressed gratitude for the medical care he is receiving and noted progress in his recovery. 'I am being very well taken care of, and I am grateful for all the wonderful care I am getting. I am adjusting slowly and doing a lot of physiotherapy. I am feeling very happy and am making good progress. I have a long way to go but am getting used to my new circumstances,' he said.
The operation is the latest in a series of health setbacks for Mr Markle, who has previously survived two heart attacks and a stroke. Despite the ongoing rift with his daughter, he remains hopeful for reconciliation and has expressed a desire to meet his grandchildren, Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four, whom he has never seen.
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding contact between Meghan and her father. While initial claims suggested she had not reached out, a spokesperson for the Duchess confirmed she had 'reached out' by delivering a letter. Mr Markle said he was 'confused' by reports of her attempts to contact him. The spokesperson later stated, 'It has been exceedingly difficult for the Duchess to contact her father privately, despite her efforts over the past several days. With the support of reliable and trusted contacts, her correspondence is now safely in his hands.'
Mr Markle has not shied away from criticising his daughter and Prince Harry in the past, calling their decision to step back from royal duties 'the dumbest thing they could have done.' However, he has maintained that his love for Meghan endures. Appearing on Good Morning Britain in September, he said, 'I've always been here for her, I love her, I'll love her forever. I want her to reach out to me and let me see my grandkids and let me have a little peace. It's been five years.'
