Keith Lee reflects on his TikTok journey before the potential ban

Keith Leebeloved viral food critic and influencer, recently reflected on his remarkable online journey as an opportunity in the US. TikTok ban looms.

From his humble beginnings to becoming a trusted voice for small businesses and TikTok users, Lee shared how the app changed his life and allowed him to connect with millions of people around the world. And in true Lee fashion, he thanked everyone who helped make his dream come true.

As TikTok users in the US wait anxiously to see if the app continues or stops on Sunday, January 19, many creators are saying goodbye to the app just in case.

About the virus TikTokers Lee reminiscing and taking a little trip down memory lane to share some of the good times was his way of saying goodbye to TikTok and all his followers if the app goes dark.

“With all the news going around TikTok, I think it's time to talk about it. So let's talk about it,” he began his video. “I just want to start by saying if it's not real and we're here after the 19th, regardless, this message is still there. This community, and when I say community, I don't mean it lightly, has changed my entire life . “

He continued his video by explaining that “countless and countless families' lives have been affected.” He then listed some of the people he was able to help with food reviews.

Lee named some of the heartfelt stories he was able to help create.

“A lady who was a teacher for 20 years could retire after a 24-hour test,” he said. “A husband and father who dreamed of owning a restaurant was diagnosed with tongue cancer shortly after owning the restaurant. Before she passed away, he was able to see his restaurant flourish and he had a dream his whole life.”

His list went on to shout out the owner of a banana pudding shop in Texas and how she was able to open a second location. Lee also talked about the Vegas pizza shop that was “on the verge of closing, literally a week away from closing” and how it's still open two and a half years later. He also said Cleo's in Chicago “went from one location to three.”

“And those are just five that came to mind. There have been over hundreds,” he continued. “This is a mission I believe in with all my heart, God has given me and nothing or no one will stop me from doing it.”

Lee said that no matter what happens with either app, “we are with you all.” He reminded his followers that his name is the same on all other social media channels and shared that he has “huge news” that he can't “get into” yet.

As with all of Lee's videos, his loyal followers took to the comments section to share their support, gratitude and love for everything he does.

“You have changed so many lives with this app, I pray we continue to see you make a difference,” one viewer wrote. Another said: “Thank you Keith. God has used your gift of communication and compassion to help people. It's a life to use our gifts and testimonies to help and bless others. It's a real community.”

Another viewer added: “You are the good people of TikTok who are changing the world.”

Many others wondered if Lee would switch to RedNote in the future, although he has yet to answer.

Lee, 28, recently revealed PEOPLE about how the app helped him deal with anxiety and depression. He explained that his reviews help not only restaurants and small business owners, but also himself.

Comparing videos from when he was 18, he noted the differences in TikTok.

“I believe that TikTok and the people of TikTok have played a key role in that,” he said. “I am eternally grateful to them.”

He also credits his family, wife Roni and their children Carter and Riley, with helping him overcome seasonal depression and anxiety.

“Without them, I don't believe I would be able to get through as much as I did, or have the tools to make it better,” he shared.

on friday Lee took to TikTok to share a testimonial video to show how far he's come on the app.

The video shows Lee cooking dinner for his wife as she takes care of their baby. He responded to the “why do you cook, why can't your mother help you” comment with a “teachable moment” where he can “drop some knowledge”.

It didn't take long for viewers to flood the comments section.

“It all started with someone hating on the comments? Look how it all started wow!!” one person wrote. Another added: “We made the real person famous… God bless you Keith!!”

And the love and support didn't stop there.

“Unbelievable growth. Grateful for your faith and hard work,” one person shared. Another said: “Thanks for being with us Keith and thanks for all the amazing content.”