It breaks my heart that she can't travel or take time off work, but this is "the American way of life" as she said herself. She mentioned in Thailand she used to take a vacation every few weeks, but in the USA she has never had one.
USA does not always bring success.
Hopefully in the future Thai Chow can have a better and successful shop. And the owner can take a vacation and return to his country as a successful person.
When I talk with her I sense she has regrets about leaving Thailand, but because her husband, kids, and grandkids aren't interested in her country, she's never taken them on holidays or anything. I think at the very least she'd like her family members to be a little more in touch with the Thai side of their DNA.
one day there will be children, grandchildren or maybe great-grandchildren who are curious about their mother's country of origin. And will find out who their relatives are there. hope so