score:4
From what I've seen, a Canadian tourist visa is possible even in seemingly very difficult circumstances (even if common "Internet wisdom" suggests otherwise). The key is (1) honesty and (2) building a strong case. Without knowing the details of your case, it is impossible to give specific advice, but here are some things that have helped me in the past when I was assisting with some very difficult applications:
If application is denied, don't reapply without talking to a lawyer first.
Finally, do the mom and the sister have to visit at the same time? A whole-family reunion is nice, but from a visa perspective this may be easier as 2 separate trips. (Again, honest applications only - not "pretend that there are 2 trips", but really apply for a trip for 1 person, have her complete the trip and exit Canada, then apply for 2nd person).