Just as a point of information, a United/Emirates business class RTW ticket ex-Korea is US$3781 plus tax. I'd be prepared to bet that when you added the cost of hotels, taxis or airport parking, BOB meals, and all the other hoohah associated with MRs, that the $781 plus tax (maybe 10%) differential between a lot of BIS hours to get your mother over the ditch, vs. having her ride in paid status (no futzing with award availability) - might possibly be worth it? Just a thought...