A big welcome to the board from the eastern part of Texas. You have come to the right place for help. The ladies and gentlemen on this board are awesome. I haven't been quilting long enough to have the knowledge necessary to answer your questions but I do wish you the best. I also want to warn you that quilting is both an awesome and addictive hobby. Your gonna love it.
You are doing a wonderful thing for your friend. I so admire you for making him this quilt and for just being there for him.