Meghan Markle's letter reaches estranged father after leg amputation surgery
What's the story
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has managed to send a letter to her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr. The 81-year-old is currently recovering in a hospital in the Philippines after having part of his left leg amputated. The delivery of the letter was confirmed by a spokesperson for Markle on Wednesday, who said it was made possible with "the support of reliable and trusted" individuals.
Communication challenges
Markle's efforts to reach Thomas amid communication issues
Despite initial reports suggesting that Markle hadn't contacted her father, her team confirmed that she had emailed him on December 5. However, the email was sent to an account that Thomas rarely checks. The delivery of the letter was complicated by a Daily Mail reporter being at his bedside, making private contact difficult. Nevertheless, with help from trusted friends, the message finally reached him.
Health concerns
Thomas's surgery follows years of health issues
Thomas's recent surgery comes after years of reported health problems, including a stroke in 2022. He has been estranged from Markle since shortly before her May 2018 wedding to Prince Harry. The rift began when Thomas confessed to staging paparazzi photos and allegedly not being truthful with Markle about his communications with the press.
Reconciliation hopes
Thomas's desire to reconnect with Markle and his grandchildren
Despite the rocky relationship, Thomas has expressed his desire to reconnect with Markle and meet his grandchildren someday. The estrangement between father and daughter was discussed by Markle during her 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, where she stated, "I've lost my father."