Meghan Markle Is Being Urged to Reach Out to Her Dad as He Lies 'Hooked Up to Machines'
After a three-hour operation and another surgery ahead, the Markle family waits for both medical recovery and a word from the Sussexes.
Meghan Markle’s father, Thomas Markle, has long existed on the margins of the Sussex narrative, especially after her marriage to Prince Harry. After a period away from headlines, he has now been thrust back into the spotlight following mounting concern over his health after a sudden medical emergency in the Philippines. The former television lighting director was rushed to the hospital earlier this week after falling seriously ill at his home in Cebu. He underwent a three-hour operation and remains in intensive care, though his condition is now said to be 'stable.'
The update came from his son, Thomas Markle Jr., who visited him in the hospital. “I went to see Dad today. He is heavily medicated on painkillers and other drugs. He is hooked up to all kinds of machines. He's pretty much out of it. The doctors say he is stable, which is good news. He is a brave man and a fighter,” he shared. Doctors are now reportedly preparing Thomas Sr. for another procedure to remove a blood clot, which is all the more serious.
Since news of his condition broke, an outpouring of support has followed from around the globe, including messages from the UK, interestingly. This is an unexpected wave of solidarity toward the man who has long been marooned from the royal conversation that once engulfed him. His son added, “The whole family is grateful for the outpouring of love and well-wishes from people all around the world, especially from Britain. We want to thank everyone for their support and kindly request that everyone keep sending positive thoughts for Dad's recovery.” Meghan’s half sister, Samantha Markle, also expressed her concern and said, “We are all hoping and praying that Dad pulls through. He has a long journey of recovery ahead of him,” she said.
Yet even as messages of prayers pour in for Thomas, Meghan apparently has yet to reach out. His relationship with Meghan collapsed in 2018, after he staged photos for the paparazzi. Since then, the father and daughter have had no public reconciliation. Thomas has also never met his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. He moved 7,000 miles away from the Sussexes to a modest high-rise apartment in Cebu earlier this year to avoid the 'awful' drama of the last few years, hoping for a more 'peaceful' environment.
Given his ill health now at 81, his son urged, "I would implore Meghan and Harry to reach out to Dad."
The health battles of Thomas Sr. have been ongoing. Born in Newport, Pennsylvania, the regional Emmy award-winner has had two heart attacks and a stroke in recent years. The Sussexes have drawn criticism for continuing promotional appearances for their Netflix project, including Harry’s late-night show appearance for a comedy skit, while Meghan’s father remains seriously ill.
