mahasamatman, just to be safe, you might want to call MP and find out whether they'll just comp you the status if you're only 5 EQM away. Not guaranteed unless in writing, of course, but maybe get 2-3 opinions and if they all agree, you might need to worry a bit less.

Do you have any other family or friends for whom you could buy tickets and get reimbursed? Hmm, I can see a new CC topic... "H: United MP Visa; W: to buy your tix!" ...