She isn't thinking so much about herself in this case but about her friend. Her not answering you about herself would lead me to believe that is true.
Don't try to connect to your W through something painful unless you are willing to be contacting the actual person. You just did this with her niece. Reach out to her friend. Ask if there is anything that you can do for her. Don't get into a conversation about your W, keep the focus on her and how you might be of help.
I know you are trying to connect with your W. She hasn't indicated that she is open to that, so please quit trying that. Cheese less tunnels.
Focus on you and your kids.
kat
Me-53(and learning!) S24, S21, D18, D17 Just keep swimming, Just keep swimming. Dory