Footprints it sounds as if you are a great friend and i am sure that your friend appreciates what you have been doing for her already.
I am sorry to read that your friend is going through all this. I hope that she can recover from this.
Maybe you could try giving NHS direct a call or emailing them to ask them if they could recommend any support networks in your area?
http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/contact/