The heartbroken family of a paramedic have paid tribute to him after he took his own life.

Ryan O’Bray, from Minster, helped save countless lives whilst fighting his own depression and anxiety.

He had been getting help through counselling sessions and anti-depressants but it is understood that he stopped both of these in recent months.

After his death, Ryan’s family had found several letters he had written for them.

His mum, Lisa O’Bray, said: “I think he was tired and emotionally couldn't deal with it anymore.

“In the letters, he said that he'd had a great childhood and loved us dearly. He thanked us for giving him a good life and we should not blame ourselves.

“We were devastated and bewildered. It's heartbreaking.

“I miss my son, every minute of every day. I really wouldn't want any other family to go through this.”

The 28-year-old worked at Sheppey Ambulance Station in Queenborough for the last seven years.

Lisa described him as an “old soul” with a passion for music.

She added: “He was such a lovely person – always looking after other people – which was reflected in his job.

“He was just a very kind and caring lad. He was also musically talented and loved going to see his favourite bands.

“He was excellent on the piano and guitar, but could probably pick up anything and play it.”

After suffering from depression and bouts of anxiety, Ryan took his own life on Sunday, July 21.

He leaves behind his parents, Lisa and Rob, his two younger brothers Jordan, 27 and Lewis, 20, as well as Charlie, Lewis’ boyfriend, who was “like a brother to him”.

“He helped a lot of people. Ryan was so selfless but he didn't have a lot of self-esteem,” Lisa explained.

“His sleep pattern was terrible due to his job. I think his depression slowly took over him at night and he couldn't regulate his moods.

“I miss my son, every minute of every day. I really wouldn't want any other family to go through this.”

“Ryan hid everything behind a really funny and amazing sense of humour. He was the funniest person you could meet.

“He was a proud man and very private with his emotions. He would hate any fuss on him and he hid it very well.”

The funeral was held at the Garden of England Crematorium in Bobbing on Tuesday, August 6.

More than 200 paramedics lined the street and gave a round of applause as his coffin, draped with the ambulance flag, went through the entrance.

Ryan had previously studied at Oasis Academy and returned after he had graduated to work as a classroom assistant.

However, he always had a love for the healthcare industry.

At 12 years old, Ryan became a cadet at St John Ambulance in Halfway where he began first aid training.

“I think he always knew deep down it was going to be the paramedic route,” Lisa added. “Once he'd got his C1 driving licence, there was no stopping him.”

As an associate ambulance practitioner, Ryan was based at Medway and then Queenborough.

Despite the tragic circumstances, the family wants to spread awareness and let others know they are not alone.

Along with friends and colleagues, they have set up a GoFundMe to provide a defibrillator and essential first aid training in the community.

At the time of writing, it has raised nearly £5,000. If you would like to donate, click here.

SECAmb operations manager, Alex Brownlow, said: “Ryan was a popular and well-respected member of staff who is sorely missed by his colleagues and friends at SECAmb.

“While deeply sad, it was also a privilege to stand alongside Ryan's family, friends and colleagues as we honoured and paid tribute to him at his funeral.

“We continue to support Ryan's family and are working closely with them in their fundraising efforts.

“We would urge the community to also support them in making a difference in memory of Ryan.”

Lisa says she is “blown away” by the outpouring of love and hopes that they can continue to save lives even after his death.

“We want to keep his legacy going,” the 53-year-old explained. “It’s what he would’ve wanted.

“Please don't be afraid to reach out if you are feeling low – there are confidential groups and people you can ring.

"I’d also like to thank the charity, Amparo, who has helped us so much since Ryan's passing."

For support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time or click here to visit the website.

If you want to talk to someone confidentially, click here.

You can also search ‘Amparo’ on kent.gov for support following suicide.