Paying it forward.....or not?

 Julie,

I can't think of a more qualified mentor.  I think her asking your advice/help shows great discernment.  She is headed down a road to destruction that will undoubtedly result in an early demise if she doesn't do something now.  That something is DS as you mentioned.  She would fail any other surgery type or nonsurgical program.  

Hopefully, losing the weight would help increase not only her self-esteem but her pride as a single mother as well.  She seems defeated from what you've described.  Having someone to believe in her may be just what she needs to start believing in herself again and make this work.  

I admire your willingness to help.  Maybe she would agree to some level of commitment with you in exchange for mentoring her.  She could add you to her HIPPA forms so you could check on her and discuss her case with the surgeon/midlevel/nurse without violating privacy issues.  That would provide some accountability on her behalf.  

She and her children have so much to gain from a decision such as this.  Maintaining status quo is just simply not an option.  I have no doubt with you in her corner she could master her DS and excel.  

I'm excited about this opportunity for both of you!