Hey Leslie
I have another suggestion to block out the desert sun. How about an umbrella that folds up. I used one in Houston in the spring and summer of 2002. It was a life saver. I would have to sit in the sun for an hour at a time waiting for transportation to my motel. A fad was started that year.
Have you looked into trying to find some kind of transportation to the hospital that is dedicated to taking patients to their appointments and that can accomodate wheelchairs. That way your Mom won't have to be getting in and out of the chair and vehicles so much. She and the chair can be loaded all at once.
Have you checked into home health care services. have you checked with the Area Agency on Aging and the cancer society for services that you mother could use. They surely would know about transporation services, home care services such as feeding, bathing and dressing. Maybe even home nursing services, if you mother needs it. Maybe even housekeeping services. Someone to help with the laundry, washing dishes, light house cleaning, etc.
I know you are in a whirlwind of confusion right now. S-l-o-w D-o-w- n and breathe. Concentrate on making Mother a quilt that will cover her during the treatments and make one just like it for yourself so you can wrap up in it and give mama a hug, long distance.
I know someone out there knows where a free pattern is for a wheelchair tote bag. Come on ladies and gents, this girl needs your help. We need to keep her quilting and sewing. This is her therapy during these trying weeks and months.
Again, hope this helps.
Kate T. South Mississippi