Woman still in serious condition following fire accident

A Kalispell woman was still in serious condition Tuesday a week after she was burned in a fire on Wendt Way.

Harborview Medical Center spokeswoman Barbara Clements said Laurie Beckstrom was in the Seattle hospital’s intensive care unit.

Beckstrom is an accomplished and nationally known dog sledder. She was burned on March 9 after gasoline was poured on a small burn pile.

Neighbors and Missoula nonprofit Animeals have arranged for 17 tons of hay to be provided for Beckstrom’s nine horses and donkeys while she is hospitalized.

She is expected to remain hospitalized for several months. The group is taking donations to help pay for the hay. Donations can also be mailed to 1700 Rankin Street, Missoula, MT 59808.