You have a kind heart towards your Niece's friend's mother. I think the best part of our horrible situations is how it allows us to have compassion for others in their suffering. Unless you're already close and have a friendship with her, I would let her be - and perhaps just pray for her (if that is something you do) or give your sister suggestions on how to help her. It might be strange for her to have that type of conversation with a relative stranger - she might (as you suggest) feel gossiped about. If you live near her and there's something practical and anonymous you could do for her - like cut her lawns - then perhaps that's an idea. I think a woman in that situation might need the friendship of another woman.
