Has being on the programme changed your outlook on life?
Being on The Secret Millionaire gave me a different outlook on life. The unsung heroes are the carers. Their lives get turned upside down, yet they are the forgotten ones. It made me really appreciate what my mum has done for my brother and the whole family. The show also taught me what to do when someone receives horrendous news. I was always guilty of crossing the road rather than having to deal with the awkwardness of not knowing what to say. I was taught to step up, listen, don't be scared of silence, in fact let it breathe; if you don't know what to say, say "I don't know what to say". If you think the news is awful, say "it's awful" but most importantly, be there and empathise.
Who or what was the biggest inspiration you met during the making of the show?
I enjoyed my time with Ted enormously. He was a huge inspiration and a wonderful man, who touched me deeply. Ted has had bowel cancer and was told the week before I met him that he has now has lung cancer. Through all this, Ted has performed 880 gigs at around £50 a gig, raising £33,000 for Bury Hospice. Ted deserves a medal.
Do you feel that businesses have a role to play in helping charities?
I assumed all the charities I met were well funded because they had nice websites and glossy magazines but in truth they were running on shirt buttons and facing closures. Business people have a responsibility to help wherever they can, from donations to annual team-building days and 'staff volunteering initiatives' here. I believe we have a duty to help the old, young and sick. After all, it's going to be us or our loved ones one day.
What are your favourite memories of making the programme?
Making food with the brain injury clients. They were a funny bunch and really positive. Also, sitting in the car with Ted having our little chats brings back such warm memories and of course, gift day. I don't think I have ever cried so much in one day.
Have you stayed in touch with the people from the show?
I am planning to take my mum and brother to meet the charities and have dinner round Ted's within the next month.
To find out more about Lee, go to his website at
.
