Matt, Jess, and their two lovely kids, Billie (6) and Alby (4) — a young, hardworking family navigating a very tough road with quiet strength and resilience. Over the last two and a half years, they’ve faced enormous challenges due to Matt’s unexpected and ongoing health battle. We’re reaching out to invite those who can to lend a hand in helping them stay steady during this time.
Matt’s Journey So Far
In December 2022, Matt — a fit and active tradie — was hospitalised just before Christmas with necrotising fasciitis (NF), a rare and serious bacterial infection. It came on without warning, without injury, and without any of the typical causes.
Since then, Matt has undergone:
- 43 surgeries — 39 on his leg, 4 on his dominant arm
- Over 100 days in hospital
- Multiple ICU stays, including one life-threatening episode
- 15+ emergency department visits and long-term use of medical devices
- Ongoing pain and limited mobility, especially in his leg and arm.
He’s continuing to attend regular hospital appointments and work toward recovery, but it’s been a long, complex journey without a clear end date.
Life at Home
Throughout it all, Jess has kept everything going — working, parenting, supporting Matt, and doing her best to provide stability for Billie and Alby. Matt has worked part-time where possible, but ongoing surgeries and medical setbacks have made this extremely limited.
Despite their efforts and careful financial management, this extended situation has placed a significant strain on the family’s resources. Support from government services is minimal, and savings have been gradually depleted after years of managing high care needs, medical travel, and day-to-day costs.
How You Can Help
We’re hoping to raise funds to give this family a bit of breathing room — to help with:
- Basic living costs like groceries, utilities, and housing
- Medical expenses and appointments not covered elsewhere
- Keeping their children’s routines and education on track
- Supporting Matt’s long road to recovery
They’re not asking for luxuries — just a little help to keep things steady and allow them to focus on what matters most: health, healing, and their two beautiful kids.
Every Bit Helps
If you’re in a position to contribute, it would mean the world. If not, simply sharing their story is just as powerful. They’re a family who have always given what they could to others — and now it’s our turn to give a little back.
Thank you for reading, and thank you for supporting Matt, Jess, Billie, and Alby on their journey forward.
Organizer and beneficiary
Marcus Occhipinti - Wallington Cricket Club
Organizer
Bell Post Hill, VIC
Matthew Sampson-Barnes
Beneficiary