Thank you for your advice. I was of course anticipating that there is nothing SL can do because it is a private agreement between two residents, so it is not surprising news to me.
No, I paid in advance in full, she told me that she would be purchasing a lot of the materials and such so she convinced me to pay her. I first offered half now and half when the job is done but she didn't agree to that. I understand that creators can get sick, numerous uncountable number of reasons etc I don't fault anyone for that. The only issue is buyer beware, particularly on SL where RL business ethics should not be counted on.
It's in my best interests to just wait then. And looking back on it now, I doubt she wants to run away with the money since she is a creator and has a reputation to uphold for the sake of her SL business.