Toronto Mayor Rob Ford Will Take Leave for Substance Abuse - East Idaho News
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Toronto Mayor Rob Ford Will Take Leave for Substance Abuse

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Getty 043014 robford?  SQUARESPACE CACHEVERSION=1398915559136Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images(TORONTO) — Toronto Mayor Rob Ford will take a break from his campaign for re-election to “seek immediate help” for his “problem with alcohol,” he said Wednesday.

In a statement thanking Toronto residents for their support, the controversial politician acknowledged his need for professional help when it comes to his personal decisions.

Tonight I want to take some time to speak from my heart to the people of Toronto. It’s not easy to be vulnerable and this is one of the most difficult times in my life. I have a problem with alcohol, and the choices I have made while under the influence. I have struggled with this for some time.

Today, after taking some time to think about my own well-being, how to best serve the people of Toronto and what is in the best interests of my family, I have decided to take a leave from campaigning and from my duties as Mayor to seek immediate help.

I have tried to deal with these issues by myself over the past year. I know that I need professional help and I am now 100% committed to getting myself right.

I love the people of Toronto, I love being your mayor and I hope you will continue to stand by me.

With the support of my family, friends, professionals and the people of Toronto, I will conquer this.

Please keep me and my family in your prayers during these difficult days ahead.

I just want to say to the people of Toronto that I thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement. I cannot tell you enough how much I appreciate it.

Ford will seek help for substance abuse, according to his attorney Dennis Morris, though he will not give up his bid for mayor.

“He’s been a jackrabbit for 14 years,” Morris said, and his leave will be effective as soon as possible.

His decision to step away comes after reports from the Toronto Sun with new audio of the mayor “ranting and swearing” at a local bar, as well reports from the Globe and Mail that another video has surfaced of Ford smoking what appears to be crack cocaine.

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