The mum of a “loving and caring” Scunthorpe man with a “heart of gold” who tragically took his own life has urged other men who are struggling with their mental health to seek help and speak out.
Ryan Barrett, 21, sadly died on Wednesday, January 17, following a battle with his mental health. He leaves behind adored son Jaxson, 17 months, a devoted mum and dad, five siblings and many family and friends who loved him dearly.
He was well known within the community as being an avid biker, and was known fondly among his friends as ‘The Wheelie King’ because of his passion with pushbikes, motorbikes and quad bikes.
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Speaking to Scunthorpe Live, Ryan’s mum Stacey said: “From being young, Ryan had learning difficulties but it never stopped him, he was a very clever young boy and young man. He loved anything with engines – bikes, cars, you name it – he had the knowledge of everything like that. He was an absolute star with it, he was amazing.
“He loved it into adulthood. Even now up in them skies he’ll be getting speeding tickets. He never changed, from leaving school he would always be out with his mates. They called him The Wheelie King because you’d get him on a pushbike, a motorbike – anything with wheels – and he’d tilt it to its side and go on it with two wheels. He would wheelie down the whole road.
“He had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. If someone was getting hurt, he’d stick up for them in a heartbeat, he’d protect anyone from getting hurt. He was a really special person. He was the most loving, caring – and impatient – person, but had a heart of gold. He was just living his life and having the best life, that was Ryan.”
Since welcoming his son Jaxson in August 2022, Ryan was a “doting” dad who loved spending time with his boy.
Stacey continued: “He was an amazing dad, absolutely amazing, he doted on him. Nothing stopped him being a dad to Jaxson. Every time I look at Jaxson I just see Ryan, he’s his dad’s double.
“He was the most caring boy that you could want and a doting dad, son, brother and grandson, and a friend to many. We’ve done a tribute on our front with pictures of him, and the amount of flowers and people who have turned up, it’s crazy, just the amount of people who knew and adored him.
“Men, please talk if you’re struggling, because there are people out there who listen. Just don’t give up trying to get the help you need.”
A Gofundme page has been launched to help Ryan’s family during this difficult time and help to give him the “best send-off”. You can donate here.
A balloon release will also be held in memory of Ryan at Burringham Field, Scunthorpe at 2pm on Saturday, January 27, followed by a ride-out around Scunthorpe.
Andy’s Man Club is a free talking group for men and runs every Monday at 7pm at New Beginnings, Unit 2, Davidson House, East Common Lane, Scunthorpe. It is open to anyone over the age of 18. Alternatively, people can call Samaritans anonymously on 116 123. Lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, free of charge.
Original artice: https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/all-about/scunthorpe
