Traveling on short notice by plane without taking out a second mortgage?

[puglogic]

Hi all,
I need to fly home to be with my family as they make decisions around end-of-life for my stepmother, who's on her last couple of days (we think). So, like, now. Has anyone had to do this? It seems dreadfully expensive and I don't have any idea how I'd afford the full "24 hours notice" fares. Am I missing some tip or trick for doing this?
Thanks,
pug

[catherine]

Try talking to the airline--they may be able to grant you bereavement fare:

http://airtravel.about.com/od/travelindustrynews/qt/bereavesick.htm

My prayers are with you and your family in this difficult time, puglogic.