Rob Ford’s return: Apologizes for behaviour, will continue re-election bid

In his first public address since entering rehab two months ago, a slimmed down, contrite Toronto Mayor Rob Ford apologized for his many indiscretions “while using” and vowed to continue his bid for re-election.

“When I look back on some of the things I have said and did, when I was using, I am ashamed, embarrassed and humiliated. I was wrong and I have no one to blame but myself.”

Ford held back tears as he explained the depths of his addiction and admitted that he was “deeply in denial.”

“For a long, long time I resisted the idea of getting help,” he said. “After experiencing some of the darkest moments of my life, I decided that enough was enough. I had became my own worst enemy.”

Follow tweets by CityNews and 680News reporters at city hall.

Ford said the staff at the GreeneStone rehab facility in Muskoka “saved my life” and “forced him to confront his demons.”

“Thanks to my treatment I can proudly say I have begun the process of taking control of my life.

This is a long, long road to recovery. And no matter what I do, I will never be able to change the mistakes that I have made in the past.”

Ford apologized to mayoral rival Karen Stintz after he was recorded referring to her in vulgar fashion, and he extended apologies to his family, citizens of Toronto, councillors and even the media.

“I want to sincerely apologize not just to the people of Toronto but every single person that was hurt by my words and actions. It was never my intention to embarrass the city or offend my fellow members of council. I deeply regret some of the personal choices I have made in the past.”

“I now realize that I was blind to the dangers of some of the company I kept and those associations have ended.”

After speaking for quite some time about his personal issues, Ford went into election mode, reiterating his accomplishments.

“I plan to continue fighting for the taxpayers of Toronto every single day. But over the coming months my top priority will be rebuilding trust with the public and my fellow members of council.”

“I am keeping the City of Toronto accountable to you, the hard working, everyday taxpayer.”