Meghan Markle's estranged father, Thomas Markle Snr, has returned to the United States from the Philippines to receive a state-of-the-art prosthetic limb in a bid to walk again. The 81-year-old former Hollywood lighting director has been in rehabilitation since his left leg was amputated in a life-saving operation in December, following a blood clot that cut off blood supply to his foot.
Mr Markle has now relocated to an undisclosed location in the US after leaving his home on the island of Cebu, where he moved last year to start a new life far from his daughter Meghan and Prince Harry. His elder daughter, Samantha Markle, confirmed the move, stating that he made the decision to return for ongoing medical care, where he can access the best prosthetics and be supported by friends and family.
Thomas Snr has been estranged from Meghan since just before her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018, when he suffered two heart attacks and was unable to walk her down the aisle. As a result, he has never met Prince Harry or his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet. After his operation, Meghan reportedly reached out to her father, sending a letter to his hospital bedside via US embassy officials. However, her half-brother Thomas Jnr claims Meghan has not contributed financially to his care, despite concerns over insurance coverage.
The Sunday Mirror previously revealed Mr Markle's move to the Philippines, where he lived in a £500-a-month high-rise flat, cared for by his son. After his amputation, he praised the care he received from Filipino doctors and nurses, crediting them with saving his life. He also spoke of finding love with Filipino nurse Rio Canedo, 46, who accompanied him to the airport for an emotional farewell. Mr Markle intends to stay in touch with Ms Canedo via Facetime and hopes she will visit him in the US soon. He credits her with helping him lose weight and regain the will to walk.
Mr Markle has expressed a desire to reunite with Meghan before he dies, stating that the next stage is to obtain an electric wheelchair and then a prosthetic leg.
