When I was diagnosed I was the director and owner of a huge cheerleading and gymnastics gym, over 300 kids in just the cheer program. Everyone of those kids had parents and families, etc. I went from being the "behind the scenes" kind of person, I've always hated being the center of attention...........to everyones eyes on me. There is a difference in the eyes of your friends when they are aware that you have CANCER.........just that word strikes a fear in all humans. Knowing someone has it changes your perception of that person, I don't care who you are or who the patient is. I hated the kind of curious, pitying look that was in the eyes of 99% of people that knew and it made me very uncomfortable, took me out of the role I was used to being in..........which was that of caregiver. No one ever had to take care of me (although my husband DOES spoil me shamelessly)it was always me taking care of and worrying on everyone else.
I suspect your mom may feel the same way I did, she just doesn't want all that attention on herself. Respect her wishes, it's one thing she can control right now and that is important.