Oh wow. How sad.
I agree, I would make the quilt and give it to her parents. Just explain that you'd made it for her and wanted them to have it. I think they will be touched...I would be.
I think that you could definitely do this pattern, even as a beginner...but to be truthful, I (as a beginner myself) wouldn't attempt it in a time crunch. If you plan to give it after Christmas (which I also think is a good idea, to let them get through the holidays) and can take your time with it, then go for it, for sure.