Maybe you could involve her in the process a little. Send her 5 squares of fabric, tell her you want to make her something but it has to be a surprise and ask her what square she likes best. She will be intrigued, you might be able to have a longer conversation with her about her opinion of each one for future reference and she will know you are clearly thinking of her while you aren't in communication. She is going through a very tough time and even if she doesn't say so, she will be grateful that you care.