Brandon Powell, Leicester College’s Student Union President is taking on a sky dive challenge on 9 June to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.
16-year-old Brandon was inspired to take on his challenge in memory of Leicester College Facilities Assistant, Lee Bates, who passed away from adrenal cancer in April.
53-year-old Lee started as a cleaner at Leicester College in 2017 and progressed to his role as Facilities Assistant where he was responsible for opening and locking up, portering, setting up rooms and key queries.
Brandon explained: “Lee wasn’t an ordinary member of staff. Although he was quiet to some, he stood out to me and the union. Lee never failed to offer me a helping hand when I stupidly locked myself out the College back door or had forgotten my keys. Lee would pass me in the corridors with a smile while asking how I was doing, never failing to brighten up my day with his unique sense of humour. It was Lee’s small gestures that we will remember him for.
“Not a lot of the students or staff at Leicester College knew that Lee was sick until one of his colleagues informed me of his passing, following a short battle with cancer. This was a shock to me and the union.
“Lee’s passing really hit home with the union, and I began to think how many people and their families are affected nationally by cancer. I immediately began thinking how we could support those fighting cancer and came up with the idea of raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support, in memory of Lee.
“When I was discussing it with my team, the idea of a sky dive popped into my head.
We thought this would be a great way to fundraise for Macmillan. I put myself forward to complete the skydive. This is a huge step for me as I have never even flown in my life so the first time I do, I’ll be diving out in memory of Lee.”
To sponsor Brandon’s challenge, please visit https://gofund.me/610d6d13
Shaun Curtis, Director of Estates and Campus Services and a colleague of Lee’s at Leicester College, added: “Lee was a quiet, friendly, and humble man who would do anything for anyone. He touched so many people’s lives and is sadly missed by the whole team here at the College. We all support Brandon’s fundraising efforts in Lee’s memory.”
