Gregory Lee
“I am eternally thankful for the support that the Be Perfect Foundation has provided me. It is through their kindness and their donors’ support that I am able to purchase this wonderful device, called a Scout. This Scout will be a game-changer, inching me closer to independence.”
Gregory Lee, born to Howard and Alicia Lee on October 27, 1972, had a fulfilling career with the City of Riverside as an Economic Developer for over 13 years. Known affectionately as "Mr. Riverside" due to his extensive involvement in the community, Lee hosted various media programs and was a prominent figure at local events such as Riverside’s Festival of Lights. He is married to Georgina Villasenor-Lee and is a father of two from a previous marriage.
Lee's life took a dramatic turn on September 28, 2015, when he was rushed to the emergency room with flu-like symptoms by his then-girlfriend. Initially thought to have the flu, his condition worsened, leading to the discovery of West Nile Virus through a spinal tap, complicated by his status as a double kidney transplant recipient. Following a series of medical challenges, including an allergic reaction to medication that caused cardiac arrest, Lee was placed in a medically induced coma.
After three months in a coma and extensive rehabilitation, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy at specialized facilities, Lee's life has been significantly altered. He was medically retired in 2019, resulting in a substantial decrease in income and has faced multiple personal losses. Despite these challenges, he remains wheelchair-bound and manages diabetes, a consequence of long-term medication use.
Lee expressed his gratitude towards the Be Perfect Foundation, stating, "I am eternally thankful for the support that the Be Perfect Foundation has provided me. It is through their kindness and their donors' support that I am able to purchase this wonderful device, called a Scout. This Scout will be a game-changer, inching me closer to independence." Inspired by his experiences, Lee founded Endure Speaking LLC, aimed at motivating others through his story, and is actively involved in various disability advocacy groups. He continues his education and is working on a book about his journey with West Nile Virus.
