That must be really exciting! If I can just suggest: Don't pressure yourself too much. Really I think the best sponsors are the ones that act as guides through the process, letting the book really be the ultimate source. I have had a few different sponsors, all very different. But I have found that women tend to take on too big a role at first...mother, counselor, bestie. IMO its simply a guidance role....not something so big as having to 'save' another's life.
Not trying to be a Debbie downer I just wanted to throw that out there.