Called DL today and explained my situation to a sympathetic agent. (by the way, the 9 AM meeting I'm attending is a job interview). She talked to a supervisor and got authorization to move me to earlier flights same day for no fee and no change in fare. It means a longer trip since I'm going via ATL but I don't mind. The best part? I'm still in First all the way.

Thanks Delta. You just made my week!