Life-Saving Surgery Results in Leg Amputation for Meghan Markle's Father Thomas Markle

Thomas Markle, the estranged father of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, had emergency surgery on Wednesday, December 3, resulting in the amputation of his left leg below the knee. The 81-year-old former Hollywood lighting director was taken to a hospital in Cebu, Philippines, for a three-hour operation to address a blood clot that had blocked circulation and caused his foot to turn black.

"It happened very suddenly," his son, Thomas Jr., shared. "I took him to a nearby hospital where they performed scans and an ultrasound, and the doctors determined the leg had to be amputated."

Thomas Jr. added that the medical team emphasized there was no alternative. "It was a life-or-death situation. The doctors said we had to operate immediately and remove the leg, or he might have died."

Following the procedure, Markle is in intensive care and reported to be in stable condition. However, doctors remain vigilant due to a significant risk of infection. He is also expected to undergo another surgery to remove a blood clot from his left thigh.

"This was a major operation, but it was necessary to save his life," Thomas Jr. said. "He has a long recovery ahead. I hope everyone keeps him in their thoughts. He is a courageous man. I would also appeal to Meghan to show him kindness during this very difficult period."

Thomas and Meghan Markle have been estranged since her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018. Before the ceremony, Thomas suffered two heart attacks and had heart surgery, preventing him from attending. King Charles (then Prince Charles) walked Meghan partway down the aisle instead. Since then, Thomas has not met Meghan and Harrys children, Archie and Lilibet.

Markle spent many years working as a lighting director in Hollywood, contributing to TV shows such as General Hospital and Married with Children. In September, he expressed a heartfelt wish to meet his grandchildren, saying he wanted them to know he loves and cares for them.

Earlier this year, Thomas moved to the Philippines, seeking a quieter life away from constant media reminders of his estrangement from Meghan and Harry. He had previously been hospitalized following a stroke in 2022.

Author: Ava Mitchell