Robin Roberts comes out, thanks longtime girlfriend in Facebook post

Dec. 29 (UPI) -- Though Robin Roberts family, friends and coworkers have long known about her sexuality, the 53-year-old broadcaster came out publicly in a Facebook post thanking her doctors, nurses, family, God and Good Morning America fans for supporting her through breast cancer, myelodysplastic syndrome diagnosis and subsequent bone marrow transplant.

She also thanked "long time girlfriend, Amber," later identified as Amber Laign, a San Francisco massage therapist Roberts has dated for 10 years.

The Facebook message marks the first time that Roberts has publicly mentioned her girlfriend, though the morning show host has often been open about her health battles.

Roberts also posted a photo of herself one year ago, reuniting with her dog 100 days after her transplant.

At this moment I am at peace and filled with joy and gratitude.

I am grateful to God, my doctors and nurses for my restored good health.

I am grateful for my sister, Sally-Ann, for being my donor and giving me the gift of life.

I am grateful for my entire family, my long time girlfriend, Amber, and friends as we prepare to celebrate a glorious new year together.

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I am grateful for the many prayers and well wishes for my recovery. I return every one of them to you 100 fold.

On this last Sunday of 2013 I encourage you to reflect on what you are grateful for too.

Wishing you a Healthy and Happy New Year.

Peace, love, and blessings to all..XO

In May 2012, President Barack Obama chose to reveal his support of gay marriage to Roberts in a sit-down interview. Gawker reported at the time that Roberts worried that the interview would call attention to her sexuality.

[People]