Isabelle Hodges

Laurell (McAlpine) and Mike Hodges’ 1-year-old (almost 2!) daughter, Isabelle, is at the children’s hospital in Kalispell. The good news is she’s at the right place! The bad news is there’s still uncertainty about what’s wrong.

Izzy and Laurell were flown by Mercy Flight to Logan Health on March 22nd after a week of Izzy fighting a fever and a test showing low blood cells. She’s undergone several blood transfusions and two biopsies to determine what’s going on. Despite low red and white blood cells and platelets, tests have been inconclusive. Doctors strongly believe she has leukemia, however, before starting treatment, they need to officially diagnose her. If leukemia is ruled out, more tests will be needed. A port has already been placed to help with transfusions, IVs, etc.

What this means is Izzy and Laurell will be at the children’s hospital for at least a few more days before moving into residential housing. If it is leukemia, chemo will start right away requiring them to stay in Kalispell for at least a month before frequent travel begins to and from Great Falls.

While Laurell focuses on Izzy, she won’t work full-time. Mike will care for their other two children and continue teaching at Great Falls High.

As Izzy’s situation continues and Laurell’s employment is impacted, the medical and living expenses will grow, especially as the family travels for care. Any assistance and well wishes are greatly appreciated!