The family of a mum who sadly took her own life have told of how she was "smiling and happy" just moments before she was rushed to hospital.
Lauren Galloway, 32, attempted suicide at her home in Saltcoats on the morning of Saturday, April 29 - just after her sister Dionne had visited for a catch-up.
The mum of two sadly died in the intensive care unit at Crosshouse Hospital in Kilmarnock three days later. Sister Dionne, 28, says there were no noticeable signs Lauren was struggling with her mental health.
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She told the Daily Record: "We can't process what happened. We are still in complete shock. I was with her half an hour earlier, just having a catch-up.
"She was a trainee nurse and she had just got a new job. She was smiling. There were no signs of what was about to happen, otherwise I would never have left her."
Lauren was found in her home by the sisters' grandmother.
Dionne received a call from their other sister Megan, to tell her what occurred as paramedics raced to save her life. But the 32 year-old could not be saved and tragically passed away on Tuesday, May 2.
Mum-of-three Dionne continued: "We had to watch her slowly deteriorate for three days in ICU. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy. None of us could comprehend what was happening. Then eventually they had to turn off the machines that were keeping her alive."
Dionne is sharing Lauren's story to raise awareness of mental health issues and to urge those who are struggling to speak out.
Dionne added: "Don't ever underestimate what is behind someone's smile and please speak out if you need help. Lauren loved to smile and laugh.
"She could have spoken to any one of us and we would have been there for her, but she chose not to and now she's not here. I just don't want another family to have to go through what we have been through. There is help out there."
Dionne, who works as a care coordinator, is now fundraising for the Scottish Association for Mental Health in Lauren's memory and the family have organised a cycle around Millport to raise funds.
Around 30 friends and family will take part in the charity cycle on July 8.
To donate to the fundraiser, click here.
The Samaritans can be contacted any time, from any phone, free on 116 123. You can also speak to Victim Support Scotland on 0800 160 1985 who offer free and tailored support. In an emergency, always dial 999 if within the United Kingdom.
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