That's a pretty sad story, and made sadder because it's so ubiquitous these days. When I was still practicing law, 90% of my clients were pretty much down and out like this guy. It broke my heart to hear about despair twenty times a day. We do not know this guy's whole story however. I am sure he had many other problems or just ran into a spate of bad luck or like many people, made some wrong choices. Do not use him as a standard. If you want to change your career and be an airline pilot, I say you go for it. You have read the many different posts here on the pro and cons. Make an informed decision and do what is best for you and your family. Such an opportunity comes around only once.