Shania thanks fans for helping heal her 'broken heart'

Canadian country star Shania Twain has posted an internet message to her fans admitting to a "broken heart" and thanking them for their support after the announcement of her split from husband Robert (Mutt) Lange.

"Your letters, e-mails and words of encouragement give me strength," wrote the Timmins, Ont., native on her website.

"Your overwhelming support reminds me to smile, no matter how deep the pain, and to always be grateful for all the beautiful blessings in my life."

The 42-year-old award-winning singer and Lange, announced their separation in mid-May. Since then, People magazine has reported that Lange's relationship with Twain's close friend Marie-Anne Thibaud was the cause of the split.

"I need some time to heal this broken heart, but make no mistake; I will be back and hopefully stronger than ever. Thank you my friends, from the bottom of my heart," said Shania's posting.

Lange, 59, has been the driving force behind his wife's career.The two, who were married for 14 years, also produced a six-year-old son, Eja.

Lange, who has worked with the likes of AC/DC, Def Leppard and Bryan Adams, encouraged Twain to write her own songs, resulting in a blockbuster 1995 album, The Woman in Me and later collaborations such as Come on Over and Up!

Twain became a top-selling singer with worldwide hits such as You're Still the One, That Don't Impress Me Much and Man! I Feel Like a Woman.

Twain has amassed a collection of Grammy Awards, Juno Awards, the Academy of Country Music trophies and BMI Songwriter Awards while selling more than 65 million records.

In her message, the singer said that her music would carry her through.

"I have so much to say, but I know the best way for me to speak is through my music. This is my therapy, my passion, and my love. I look forward to sharing it with all of you as I begin this new journey."