My air conditioning leaks too. Last year I took it to a place to get fixed (reputable)..and they told me I need to replace it since it had 3 leaks...cost-> $1500. I said NO THANKS. I live in S. FLA and it gets hot....so the one guy filled up the freon for me (he was only supposed to give me a little to get me through another month but he filled it up for me :} ) ANYWAY....that cost me $50.00 for the estimate and I have used it every day since then...and it works great! I will just get another refill when the time comes again...I am not spending $1500 on a 94 car.
My brother (a tightwad and a liberal but we love him anyway)bought a Toyota when he lived in Massachussetts that had no air conditioning. Later, he moved to Hollywood, FL and has still driven around in that car down there for at least four years. What's worse is he has a job where he's expected to wear a coat and tie in the office.
Frankly, I don't know how he endures it. The car is now on its last days and he's going to bite the bullet and buy a new one soon. I assume he'll get air conditioning in this one! Yes, I know how hot Florida can get. It's nice you found a guy who was willing to help you out.