I recently combined a character, much to my sister's displeasure, buut...I still fall behind in character buildup...even though I went through those character sheets and everything...*sniff*
But, yes, I compliment you (and Coryn, too) for doing that...I always feel bad for deleting characters...even half-completed ones...It makes me sad to even think about it...

I think the newer version of Laura is great! Her hairstyle and clothing look more unique, now. Also, I think you forgot to change the old Laura into the new one in one panel...The one when she's coughing, I think.