Richard Simmons Breaks His Silence On Reclusive 'Tough Time'

Richard Simmons is breaking his silence after not being seen in public for almost a year.

The legendary fitness guru just wrote on his Facebook page: "I am so touched by the outpouring of love and concern I have received today."

The word is that 66-year-old Simmons has been told by doctors that he'll never exercise again unless he has knee replacement surgery.

Simmons wrote: "I have had a tough time dealing with this injury, as it is keeping me from doing what I truly love to do."

It's also being reported that the death of Simmons' beloved 17-year-old Dalmatian has led to a "debilitating depression."

Comments are flooding in to Simmons' Facebook page.

One fan spoke for everyone in writing: "Get well soon. We love you. You are a national treasure!"