you could just unscrew the screws and knock out the spacers, or you could cut them out from the inside with a jigsaw. Or just leave it and use 4" pvc for both sides, just giving you some ideas.
sorry to hear this, hope the best for her. I lost my dad in 08, if I new when he going to pass I would have spend more time with him. Just spend as much time as you can with her and be positive.