During his time in Cebu, a major city in the Philippines, Thomas is said to have formed a close bond with a Filipino nurse who was caring for him. Reports suggest the woman, significantly younger than him, brought a sense of comfort and companionship during a challenging period in his life.
The former Hollywood lighting director had previously shared that he felt grateful to have found happiness again after years of emotional strain. He reflected on how difficult things had been for him in the past, particularly after his relationship with his daughter became distant following her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry. According to him, the new connection helped him rediscover a sense of joy and purpose.
Thomas reportedly met the nurse while transitioning from hospital care to a rehabilitation facility, where she played a key role in his recovery and day-to-day support.
However, his health took a serious turn several months ago when a blood clot developed in his left thigh, cutting off circulation to his foot and leading to life-threatening complications. This ultimately resulted in the need for amputation.
As he prepared to leave the Philippines and return home, the farewell between Thomas and the nurse, identified as Rio Canedo, was said to be deeply emotional. Canedo, a divorced mother of two, accompanied him to the airport, where the two shared a heartfelt goodbye after forming a meaningful connection during his recovery journey.
