Not getting my hopes up yet, but my mom's been asking for more information about Chicago. I guess her company has a partnership with the Marriott so she's going to see if there's any way she can use her discount on me (she's been with them almost 30 years!). Do you know if this would be possible where I'd pay the regular price for Convention materials and meals? I guess I'll have to double check with IHQ once my mom finds out more info.

She knows that I'm concerned about costs, hopefully she'll be able to lend me some $$$. I told her I'd pay her back with interest. I'm desperate here, guys.