I am with you on all that. If it were me, I’d leave every cent I could to my kids in a trust that John and his new “love” couldn’t touch.
He will get his ‘reward,’ someday!
How much independent income is Mrs. Edwards privy to? That factor would limit her options. Tho' it wouldn't be unthinkable for her to pack up and leave even in her current condition of failing health. For the peace of mind and to remove herself from an unbearably stressful situation.