Who is Brigitte from The Higher Power of Lucky and what is their importance?

Bridgette is Lucky's father's former wife. She is from Paris, and after her mother's death, Bridgette comes to the states to care for for her. Initially, the plan is that Bridgette will stay until a family is found..... Bridgette, however, falls in love with her charge, and the feeling is mutual. Lucky, who dears that Bridgette will abandon her too, has nothing to worry about.