Cruel twist for family of couple killed with their unborn child in Australia Day horrific collision by teen driver
- The family of the couple killed on Australia Day suffered a brutal blow
- Matthew Field, Kate Leadbetter and unborn child die in 2021
- Matthew’s brother was diagnosed with stage four brain cancer
The family of a couple killed in a horrific hit-and-run by a teen driver faces a new challenge after the late man’s brother battles brain cancer.
Matthew Field, his partner Kate Leadbetter and their unborn baby died on Australia Day in 2021 when they were hit by a four-wheel drive by a 17-year-old under the influence of drugs and alcohol in Alexandra Hills, Queensland.
Andrew Field – Matthew’s brother – battles stage four brain cancer, another brutal blow to the family.
Earlier this month, he had a 2-inch tumor removed from his frontal lobe, while friend Alexander Allaries had a GoFundMe page to help with ongoing medical expenses.
The family of a couple who were killed along with their unborn child when a teenager beat them in a hit and run has learned another family member is battling stage four brain cancer (Photo: Matthew Matt Field and Kate Leadbetter who died in Australia Day 2021 hit and run)
Andrew Field – Matthew’s brother (pictured) – battles stage four brain cancer and deals another brutal blow to the family
On May 5, Mr. Field was suffering from a severe headache and nausea to the point where he nearly fainted and his vision was blurred.
The next day, doctors discovered the brain tumor which was promptly removed on May 8 – but the surgery came with a horror diagnosis.
Mr. Field was diagnosed with stage four glioblastoma, an aggressive and fast-growing brain tumor.
He will now undergo an intensive treatment plan of chemotherapy and will not be able to work for at least the next six to 12 months.
“As the primary breadwinner for his family, any support during this long road ahead would be greatly appreciated,” the fundraiser said.
“Both Andrew and his wife, Nicole, are on limited sick leave having taken most of it following the deaths of his brother Matt, partner Kate and unborn child Miles on Australia Day 2021.
“This will have financial implications for those with three young children between the ages of six and 12.”
Before the diagnosis, Mr. Field was preparing the landscaping in their dream family home.
More than $25,000 was raised on Saturday and many offered their well wishes.
Matthew Field pictured with his wife and three children
Matthew Field and pregnant partner Kate Leadbetter were killed on Australia Day in 2021 when hit by a four-wheel drive by a 17-year-old under the influence of drugs and alcohol in Alexandra Hills, Queensland
“So sorry to hear your family is going through this. Sending you love and prayers,” one wrote.
“This wonderful family has been through more pain and suffering lately than most in a lifetime. I wish Andrew all the best with his treatment. Stay strong everyone – we support you all,” said another.
“Andrew, stay strong and never give up. You will get through this,” wrote a third donor.
Earlier this month, the family tried to increase the 10-year sentence given to the teenager who fatally beat the couple, but the move was rejected by the court.
“We didn’t expect any bells and whistles, but we thought common sense would have prevailed,” his father Russell Field said outside court when he heard of the outcome.
The 17-year-old pleaded guilty to manslaughter last year and was serving 60 percent of the 10-year sentence.