Cruel twist for family member of Matthew Field and Kate Leadbetter killed at Alexandra Hills

The family of a couple killed in a horror hit-and-run by a teen driver face another challenge after the brother of the man who died battles brain cancer.

Matthew Field, his partner Kate Leadbetter and their unborn baby died on Australia Day in 2021 when they were struck by a four-wheel driven by a 17-year-old under the influence of drugs and alcohol in Alexandra Hills, Queensland.

Andrew Field – the brother of Matthew – is battling stage four brain cancer in another cruel blow to the family.

Earlier this month he had a 5cm tumour removed from his frontal lobe, with friend Alexander Allaries setting up a GoFundMe page to help with ongoing medical costs.

Andrew Field – the brother of Matthew (pictured) – is battling stage four brain cancer in another cruel blow to the family

On May 5, Mr Field was suffering intense headaches and nausea to the point where he was almost fainting and had blurred vision.

The following day doctors discovered the brain tumour which was promptly removed on May 8 – but the surgery came with a horror diagnosis.

Mr Field was told he had stage four glioblastoma, an aggressive and rapid-growing brain tumour.

He will now undergo an intensive treatment plan of chemotherapy and will be unable to work for at least the next six to 12 months.

‘As the primary provider for his family any support would be greatly appreciated during this long road ahead,’ the fundraiser said.

‘Both Andrew and his wife, Nicole, have limited sick leave left due to using most after the death of his brother Matt, partner Kate and unborn child Miles on Australia Day 2021.

‘This will impact them financially with three young children between the ages of six and 12.’

Before the diagnosis, Mr Field was preparing to do the landscaping at their dream family home.

More than $25,000 has been raised as of Saturday with many offering their well-wishes.

Matthew Field pictured with his wife and three kids

Matthew Field and pregnant partner Kate Leadbetter were killed on Australia Day in 2021 when they were struck by a four-wheel driven by a 17-year-old under the influence of drugs and alcohol in Alexandra Hills, Queensland

‘I’m so sorry to hear your family is going through this. Sending you love and prayers,’ one person wrote.

‘This wonderful family has recently endured more pain and suffering than most in a lifetime. Wishing Andrew all the very best with his treatment. Stay strong everyone – we are all supporting you,’ another said.

‘Andrew, keep strong and never give up. You will get through this,’ a third donor wrote. 

Earlier this month the family tried to increase the 10-year sentence the teenager who fatally struck the couple received, but the move was dismissed in court.

‘We weren’t expecting bells and whistles, but we thought maybe common sense would have prevailed,’ his father Russell Field said outside court when learning of the outcome.

The 17-year-old pleaded guilty to manslaughter last year and was ordered to serve 60 per cent of a 10-year jail term.