I would argue the point that an individual who flies VFR in IMC is a
skillful pilot. Most pilots would suggest that flying in IMC and being lost
in a thunderstorm do not demonstrate good judgment or skill.

She stated that it was so difficult to control the plane that she couldn't
take her hands off the yoke to hit the "nearest" button on her GPS to find
the closest airport. I do not think this demonstrates a high level of
proficiency or judgment.

I spoke with our mechanic today- the plane had tree bark and leaves embedded
in the wingtip and leading edge. This to me would suggest that at some point
in time she had hit a tree.

These are the facts of the post- if you do not believe that these events
brought this individual close to killing herself so be it.