A frail-sounding Rob Ford has released an audio statement in which he thanks Torontonians for their support and vows to face a rare form of cancer “head-on” and “beat it.”

The two-minute statement was recorded at Mount Sinai Hospital, where Ford will begin chemotherapy for liposarcoma later today.

“Let me start by saying thank you to the good people of Toronto. I am humbled by your overwhelming kindness and support. It means the world to us that so many of you have reached out to show concern and offer prayers,” Ford says. “With the love and support of my family, my friends, and the people of Toronto – I will beat this. I am determined to face this head on and return strong for my family and for my city.”

Ford begins the recording by saying that he will undergo chemotherapy “in the next few hours” and will then spend the next “little while” with his family “getting better.”

The mayor then pivots to the election campaign, urging Torontonians to rally behind his brother.

Doug Ford officially entered the mayoral race last week but has refused to answer questions about his candidacy, telling reporters that he needs time to support his brother before throwing himself into the grind of an election campaign.

“The city’s future and the issues facing Toronto can’t wait. So, I’m encouraging my brother to jump into this race, wholeheartedly, right now,” Ford says. “When people get to know Doug as I do they will see a man who cares, a man with vision, integrity and determination. You, the people of Toronto, have been with me since day one. Now I ask you to throw your support behind Doug.”

The recorded statement marks the first public comments from Ford since his cancer diagnosis was made public and the mayor does take the time to offer some advice to others afflicted with the disease, telling them to “be strong, positive and have hope”

The mayor then concludes the statement with one last message.

“Just never ever give up,” Ford said.

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