To the OP, we are on the same cruise as you. It is me, DH, DD and DSIL and our 4 DGDs. We have connecting rooms, 9536 and 9538, so we will be your neighbors if you decide to move.

I also prefer starboard side since that seems to be the side that is usually facing the port. At least it has been for us in the past. We were right next to the elevators and stairs in a Neptune Suite on our last cruise on HAL in May to Alaska, and it was never a problem with noise, and I don't think it will be with
DCL either. We have cruised before on Carnival,
RCCL, and HAL, but this is our first DCL cruise, so we are very excited to be cruising on the Dream! I have been doing extensive research on this site too since we are new to DCL.
I am sorry to hear about your parents medical issue and having to cancel, but I do hope all goes well with their treatment.
Good luck with whatever you decide and maybe we will see you onboard the ship!