‘Generous and kind’ young Aussie, 22, tragically dies in his sleep on New Year’s Eve

A “generous and kind” young Australian who died after a medical episode in his sleep on New Year’s Eve has been remembered for his community spirit.

Tom O’Neill, 22, died on New Year’s Eve after suffering a suspected epileptic fit just hours after spending time with his family.

The horticulturist from Geelong, Victoria, was diagnosed with epilepsy as a newborn after suffering meningitis.

Despite having a brain injury and a history of seizures, Mr O’Neill did not let that stop him from helping others whenever he could.

“In recent years he has gone to Melbourne, to the MCG, to volunteer to help climb the fire stairs,” his brother Jack told Daily Mail Australia.

‘As a family we only found out after (his death).

“He wasn’t one to really talk about it too much, or expect any kind of praise or pat on the back or anything like that.”

Although Mr O’Neill’s health problems inspired him to volunteer with the local branch of the Make A Wish Foundation, it also meant he struggled socially.

Despite having a brain injury and a history of seizures, Mr O’Neill (pictured) did not let that stop him from helping others whenever he could

But shortly after his death, friends he made online from around the world shared stories of his kindness with his grieving family.

Jack, the eldest of Mr O’Neill’s 11 siblings, said his brother found it difficult to socialize and often “sat on the periphery and observed” because of his health problems.

But he cherished the friends he had and drove several hours to visit a partner in rural Victoria who had been struggling recently.

‘That highlights the kind of friend he was to many and it’s the kind of stories we’re now starting to see come to light as he was a very private person.

“It just so happens that we’re finding out about some of these things that he did without asking for recognition or expecting anything in return,” Jack said.

A GoFundMe launched to help cover Mr O’Neill’s funeral costs, said those who shared stories of his generosity helped his family at a devastating time.

“His family is buoyed by the knowledge that Tom’s generosity and kindness will be felt by all who knew him long after his time with us,” the fundraiser reads.

‘He will be greatly missed by his parents, siblings, friends and colleagues, all of whom sincerely thank you for your kindness and support at this difficult time.’

The fundraiser has already raised more than $17,000 in just over three days, with Mr O’Neill’s siblings paying tribute to the 22-year-old on social media.

Mr O’Neill developed epilepsy as a child after a bout of meningitis, prompting him to volunteer in his running community and with the Make A Wish Foundation

‘Taken far too soon Tom, you have achieved so much in a short time, we love you very much. Fly high,” his brother Harry wrote.

A family friend said she was one of the last people to see Mr O’Neill at her birthday dinner the night before.

“I made such a fuss about him because he showed up for little old me. I hugged him goodbye and couldn’t imagine that this was the last time I would see his beautiful smile,” she wrote.

‘Everyone, please keep in mind that you never know which farewell may be the last. Keep those you love close.”

She added that the 22-year-old is “up there, looking down on (his family) and spreading his angel wings of protection.”