I'd echo all that's been said. PPL, then perhaps do a night and IMC rating as you build hours whilst doing ATPLs by distance learning. Spend around 18 months doing this. Then re-assess.
I've been through the dilema of a career change. Not likely to be a financially sound move, but never say never. Just started ATPL with CATS distance learning. So far so good and I'll be taking my time over them. First set of exams in July.
If ultimately I stay in my current job, I'll do a CPL which will pave the way to a semi-retirement instructing.