Toronto Mayor Rob Ford asks forgiveness as he returns to work

Embattled Toronto Mayor Rob Ford returned from two months of rehabilitation and delivered an emotional apology to the public and to fellow city officials, though he avoided questions from reporters about his use of racial slurs.

Ford said he came to terms with his substance abuse problem after “intensive” therapy.

“Like a lot of people dealing with substance abuse I was in complete denial. I had convinced myself that I did not have a problem,” he said. “But it soon became obvious that my alcohol and drug abuse was having a serious, serious impact on my family, and on my health and on my job as mayor.”

“I am ashamed, embarrassed and humiliated. I was wrong and I have no one to blame but myself,” he said. “I want to sincerely apologize not just to the people of Toronto but to every single person who was hurt by my words or my actions.”

Ford thanked reporters for leaving him alone during his time in rehab but said he will not ask for their forgiveness.