GoFundMe Campaign for Meghan Markle's Dad Thomas Exceeds $50K Amid Claim The Duchess 'Rejected' Him
A GoFundMe campaign organized for Meghan Markle's estranged father, Thomas Markle, has surpassed $50,000 in donations. The funds are intended to cover Thomas's medical expenses and other needs, as he continues to express his heartbreak over being estranged from his daughter and his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Thomas Markle's Heartbreak and Health Struggles
Thomas Markle, who has been estranged from Meghan since her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry, has publicly expressed his deep sorrow over not being able to see his grandchildren. The octogenarian recently made a heartfelt appeal on "Good Morning Britain," stating, "I'm heartbroken. This is a cruel thing to do to a grandparent — to deny the right to see a grandchild." His health has also been deteriorating, adding to his emotional distress.
Lady Colin Campbell's Initiative
British socialite Lady Colin Campbell launched the GoFundMe campaign to assist Thomas with his medical expenses and other needs. In the fundraiser's description, Lady Campbell highlighted Thomas's generosity over the years, writing, "Thomas Markle has been exceedingly generous with his time and money over the years, as I have learnt from the teachers at his daughter's school, who could not sing his praises highly enough."
Lady Campbell emphasized that Thomas's kindness and generosity are well-known in the film community. She expressed her hope that the donations would demonstrate to him that there are still people in the world with good hearts, good values, and good intentions. As a self-described "well-wisher," she wishes for the donations to provide Thomas with the comfort he deserves.
Thomas's Criticism of Meghan and Harry
Thomas has also criticized Meghan and Harry for keeping their children away from their royal relatives. He lamented, "It struck me as very sad that Meghan and Harry's kids are being denied the right to know their cousins, who look like fantastic children, or take part in things like Trooping the Colour, which is their birthright." He added, "They are getting to the age where they will start to ask questions, as all kids do. I find myself wondering how Archie and Lilibet will feel in a few years' time when they realize all the things they have missed out on."
Estrangement from Half-Siblings
Meghan's half-siblings, Samantha and Thomas Markle Jr., are also estranged from her. Samantha has attempted to sue Meghan for libel, claiming she defamed her during an interview with Oprah Winfrey and in her Netflix documentary. However, her case was dismissed with prejudice by Judge Honeywell. Thomas Jr., on the other hand, has attacked Meghan on multiple occasions through bizarre videos mocking and berating her.
Royal Expert's Perspective
Royal expert Jennie Bond has condemned Thomas Jr.'s actions as "grotesque," stating, "To have your own flesh and blood lead the assault must feel like the ultimate betrayal for Meghan." In an op-ed for The Mirror, Bond argued that Thomas Markle Jr.'s videos reveal exactly why the Duchess of Sussex was right to cut ties with her half-brother.
Despite the ongoing controversies and estrangements, the GoFundMe campaign for Thomas Markle continues to receive significant support, reflecting a broader sentiment of solidarity and compassion for his plight.