I lost my sister to cancer and the process of healing was difficult. It does appear that your special friend is moving back to that happier place in her life where she could reach out to others with her quilting gifts. You are to be commended for being an encouragement to her. We know that quilts that are quilted are more durable than those that are tied but your friend needs to be able to move forward. There is simple designed FMQ and then there is the elaborate. There are lots of helpful videos and YouTube. She will find her pace in her own time. But, boy she is a great piecer!