It's a one-speed bike, it couldn't have been going very fast. Joggers and runners probably move faster, and they go against traffic. At least she can see the cars coming. Although she should get a rear-view mirror, and ride with traffic.
Maybe she was just going to a neighbors house, and she is safer staying on the same side of the road, instead of crossing a four lane highway twice?

there's another reason why it's better for people to walk against traffic, they can jump aside and are much more maneuverable than any kind of vehicle.

Riding contra-flow is bad for two main reasons, IMO.
The first, is cars don't expect you. This requires you to be extra cautious at any crossing a car may come from.
Second, it increases the collision speed should an accident occur.

I'd feel comfortable riding contra flow given three requirements are met. There are few to no cross streets, traffic is moving far faster then 40mph, and there is a large paved shoulder.

If this was indeed a 4 lane highway, I'm guessing all those things are true. If cars are doing 50+ mph, a collision will likely kill you regardless which direction you're traveling.