Since quite a few people viewed the original post, I thought I'd update people on the outcome. The morning of travel, revenue F showed F0 and my upgrade still not cleared. I accepted I'd probably have to work from E+. MSN gave me a departure management card along with my boarding pass for the ORD-PHL segment. I arrived at the gate in ORD 1 hr before my flight and decided to use the advice I had read on flyertalk. This was my first WL experience. I approached the GA (I had dressed in my best threads), and asked her how her day was going. I enquired if I had to wait in the gate area in case the upgrade WL cleared or if I could go to the RCC. She said I could go and asked my name. I gave it and offered to show my BP. She said she didn't need it: "I'll remember you". Off I went to the RCC. Back at the gate, FC was boarded and I figured I had been unlucky so started to board. She took my BP and looked up and instantly recognized me and asked if I still wanted to wait? I hadn't reaslized these things clear so late into boarding so mumbled apologetically "yes". After everyone was on board she handed me my FC boarding pass.

Overall, wonderful personalized service.