PSA: if you want to try the concept of the vibram 5 finger shoes (minimal cushion, ability to splat your toes normally), but understand that they look rather silly you can look for zero drop shoes. There are several brands out there that look like traditional shoes while giving a similar benefit.
Don't feel sad for them! They have now reached a point in life where they get to ask these kind of what if questions and no longer need to work. I love the game they built, and hopefully if they still feel down they have to time and resources now to seek help (i.e. therapy).
Lol, fat chance