System crash resulting in Outlook being deleted

Hi Guys

Need some help with my Dad's laptop - and I'm desperate as neither of us are techinically minded!. Its a Sony Vaio (exact model can be posted if req) which has recently crashed in a big way.

It's 6 months old and and part of the problem is that he has lost Outlook, and Word is now asking for his product key. He has tried recovering files etc but has resorted to a system restore which in turn has deleted Outlook. I have done some research via Microsoft' website, and a post suggested he go to http://www.magicaljellybean.com/ where he can find the product key to Word, however my biggest concern is Outlook, which appears to have completely disappeared/deleted meaning he can't access his emails.

We have tried Sony who were unhelpful, and now my Dad is considering having to buy Office seperately at considerable cost to have Outlook re installed.

I would love some advice, as this laptop means the world to my Dad and he doesn't deserve this!

Heres Hoping!

Nedster82