(((((Ohlostme)))))
I'm sorry you are having such a rough time.
Is the air conditioner the only thing that is wrong with your car? I ask because that seems like an awful lot of money for just the air to be fixed. I know living expenses in California are high, but that's outrageous to charge that much! I recently had the same problem with my car, it was blowing cool air and then eventually warm air. I took it to the garage and they charged about $100 dollars. I checked around just about everywhere near where I live, and the rate was the same ($100). The air conditioner may just need freon, I'm not sure. It's a good idea to get a second or even third opinion (or more!)
It's strange how some things can lead us down the path to thinking about other things, it's kind of like if one thing goes wrong in our lives it snowballs into other parts of our lives (and our thinking). I just want to say that I hope things get better for you. I really think they will.
Best Wishes,
Sujin