URGENT UPDATE: Thomas Markle, estranged father of Meghan Markle, has undergone an emergency surgery resulting in the amputation of his left leg below the knee. The procedure took place on December 3, 2023, in the Philippines, confirmed by his son, Thomas Markle Jr., to the Daily Mail.
The 81-year-old former Hollywood lighting director faced a life-threatening situation after a blood clot severely restricted blood flow to his leg, causing it to turn black. “My dad is being very brave,” Thomas Jr. stated. “His foot turned blue and then black. It happened very quickly. There was no option. I was told the leg had to be removed and it was a case of life or death.”
Doctors are reportedly “extremely concerned” about Thomas’s health post-surgery, with a critical period expected over the next few days. “One of his doctors said the next two or three days are critical. They were worried about infection setting in—sepsis or gangrene,” Thomas Jr. noted.
Earlier reports indicated that Thomas was in intensive care in Cebu due to an undisclosed illness. “They raced us by ambulance, with the sirens going, to a much bigger hospital in the center of the city,” Thomas Jr. added, describing the urgency of the situation.
Thomas Markle Jr. has urged the public to keep their father in their thoughts during this challenging time. “He is a strong man, but he has been through so much,” said his daughter, Samantha Markle, expressing her hopes for his recovery. “I hope he can pull through this. My father has been through two heart attacks, a stroke, and an earthquake.”
The relationship between Meghan Markle and her father has been strained since her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018, following accusations that he staged paparazzi photos. This recent health crisis adds another layer of complexity to their already tumultuous relationship.
As Thomas Markle Jr. and Samantha grapple with their father’s grave condition, the family is urging everyone to remain hopeful. The situation remains critical, and further updates are expected as Thomas’s health unfolds in the coming days.
Stay tuned for more developments on this urgent story.
