Tributes have been paid to two friends who tragically died within days of each other in East Kilbride.
Scott Carrigan, 23, passed away on August 4 just days before best friend Ross McPherson, 22, also died. Their loved ones are now vowing to break the stigma surrounding mental health and are urging others to speak out if they are struggling.
Scott’s heartbroken mum Alex Berney led the tributes for her “one in a million” son whose death will leave a 'hole in everybody's hearts', reports Lanarkshire Live.
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The bartender and events management student passed away at Hairmyres Hospital on Thursday, August 4, after being taken there by emergency services a few days before.
Alex told Lanarkshire Live: “Scott donated his organs which we weren’t aware of. He’s such a little hero.
“I’m so proud of him for that. If some good can come of something so tragic, we’ll know that he has now helped nine or 10 people have a better quality of life.
"It means a lot to us.
“Scott was the life and soul of the party, he was such a loving, kind, caring young man with a heart of gold. He loved everybody.
"He was cheeky, but just one in a million.
“Scott had such a beautiful smile that could cheer anybody up, and he was just loved by so so many people. It will leave a hole in everybody’s heart, unfortunately.”
Scott’s sister Brooke Carrigan and step-sister, Jayne Berney, launched a fundraising drive following the news of their brother’s sudden passing.
An incredible £9,000 has already been raised which will go towards funeral costs. The family is also hoping to create a mental health service for youngsters in the future in Scott's memory.
Alex explained: “We’re all lost for words at how generous everybody has been.
"We’re amazed and can’t thank everyone enough for what they’ve done.
“We also, in the future, want to set up a foundation in Scott’s name called 'Let’s Talk Scott' and try and see if we can design an app or something where boys of a similar age who need help can go any time of the day and speak with somebody - someone to talk to and not feel uncomfortable if they’re feeling low or in a dark place.
“It’s important as a family that we drive this to break that stigma around mental health and young men. We want to reach out to see if there’s anyone out there who can help set this up.”
Scott loved playing golf, spending time with his friends, and hillwalking.
A big Rangers fan also, his beloved club passed on their condolences for Scott with members of the first team signing jerseys and the club donating £1500 to Scott’s gofundme page.
His mum paid tribute to the hospital staff who cared for Scott in his final days. She added: "We would also like to thank the transplant team and all the nurses at the ICU at Hairmyres.
"They were amazing and went above and beyond.
“From the first second Scott got into that hospital until the very end, every single member of staff was just amazing. I can’t thank them enough.”
A Police Scotland spokeswoman confirmed they received a 'concern for person call' at a house in the Easdale area of the town around 4am on Sunday, July 31.
Scott's death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.
Just three days after Scott died, one of his best friends Ross sadly passed away on August 7.
The 22-year-old, also from the Westwood area of the town, is remembered as a happy and caring young man.
His dad Neil McPherson spoke with Lanarkshire Live following his sudden passing and wrote the following in tribute to Ross: "To Ross, just as hope was fading of us becoming parents you came along, you filled our life with light and joy, you were the happiest wee boy, we were a family - complete.
"As you grew into a typical teenager there were one or two fiery moments! But beneath it, all that caring, loving boy remained.
"You fought your personal doubts and anxieties so hard and always fought to make sure anyone you met was happy, their problems became your problems as you tried to help any way you could.
"Ross, if only you knew how much love and respect there is for you, and how empty this world will be without you then maybe those demons would not have got you.
"Sleep tight our boy, until we are a family once more. Love, Mum and Dad."
Known by friends as ‘Skinny’, Ross was loved by many in the community.
One pal paid tribute on social media: “A very sad day today in the Westwood, sending love to all the boys and Ross’s family.
"It was a pleasure being your friend, rest easy Skinny.”
Police were called to an address on Sunday night where tragically Ross was found.
Like Scott's, Ross' death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.
The community has been left in shock following the deaths of two men who were both so young.
If you would like to donate to the fundraiser set up in memory of Scott, visit here.
Both families have stressed they would like to highlight mental health services to locals and that help is there if you need it.
If you’ve been affected by any of the issues covered in this story or you’re in need of help, please contact the Samaritans in Glasgow. You can call free from any phone on 116 123 or head to the Samaritans website for more information.
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