Hi Cazzi,
Thanks a TON for your responses and prompt work. The name change was done and I was able to fly without any hiccups.
The Customer care called me and made the changes with a penalty/ change fee of $130. I was very happy and relieved.
You are a gem. I wish there were more like you in Etihad Airways to make things easier.
Will write back once I complete my journey on 5th Jan 2012.
Best Regards,
Cyril