During this period, Lee's effort to overhaul two county hospitals and 29 township-level public health centers triggered a backlash from conservative bureaucrats. However, Lee stood firmly behind his plan despite the opposition.
He has also tackled several major disease outbreaks, including the Dengue fever outbreak in Shenkeng Township, a dysentery outbreak in Tamsui and a typhoid outbreak in Yungho City.
"Because of his strong leadership, and because of his aggressive action in bringing health care workers into communities, his public profile is very good," said Taipei County Commissioner Su Tseng-chang. "Public health centers, which used to be dreary places, have now become lively community service centers."
This January, Lee took the post as the deputy chief of the health department.
Whenever he has found himself under pressure during the SARS outbreak, Lee said the best way for him to release tension is to go to his own "zoo," which includes fish, mice, three cats and an old street dog called Lily, who always welcomes him at his door after a hard day at the office.
He is also a dutiful husband. He never forgets to send his wife flowers and gifts on both Western and Chinese Valentine's Days as well as other special days, such as Mother's Day, her birthday and their wedding anniversary.
In return, his wife, who is worried about Lee visiting hospitals and other public places affected by SARS, always prepares a nice meal for him at home.
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