Thomas Markle, the estranged father of the Duchess of Sussex, has returned to the United States from the Philippines following a leg amputation, seeking advanced medical care and a possible reconciliation with his daughter Meghan and her family.

Health Crisis and Amputation

The 81-year-old retired Hollywood lighting director underwent the amputation of his left leg below the knee in December after a life-threatening blood clot in his thigh. This clot, which developed nearly five months ago, severely restricted blood flow to his foot.

Gratitude for Filipino Medical Care

Markle previously resided in Cebu, Philippines, to distance himself from family drama involving Meghan and Prince Harry. He expressed immense gratitude for the medical professionals who saved his life, stating, “I would not be alive today were it not for the care I received from the wonderful doctors and nurses in the Philippines. They saved my life.”

Companionship and Recovery

During his recovery, Markle found support and companionship with Filipino nurse Rio Canedo, 46. Canedo assisted him in regaining strength and motivation, and the pair shared an emotional farewell at the airport. He credited her with helping him lose weight and regain his determination to walk again, saying, “The next stage is to get an electric wheelchair and then a prosthetic leg.”

Seeking Advanced Prosthetic Technology

Markle’s return to the U.S. is also motivated by his desire to access state-of-the-art prosthetic technology to aid in his recovery and regain mobility.

Hope for Reconciliation

The move brings Markle closer to his daughter, Prince Harry, and their two children, Archie and Lilibet, whom he has not yet met. Despite a strained relationship—particularly his absence from Meghan’s 2018 wedding—he expressed a longing for reconciliation, stating, “I love Meghan and always will. I would love to meet my grandkids.”

His daughter, Samantha Markle, confirmed that the return was driven by medical needs and the desire for family support. She added, “Even though he has been through such traumatic times, this has been a positive spiritual experience for dad.”