System Restore Not Working in Windows XP

[david blanchette2]

I have a Dell PC, model 6400, about 4-5 yrs old and using Windows XP Home. Last week I was attempting to use Web Cam on Skype and was not able to make video connection. I proceeded to shut down thinking that may help. I was not able to shut down normally as my screen froze. So I did a hard shutdown by holding in the on/off button. After several minutes I turned back on and when I went to my profile, it had reverted back to some earlier point in time where all of my documents, e-mails in Outlook, and settings were gone. My wife and daughter's profiles are fine. I tried to System Restore to a number of dates prior to this happening and it will NOT restore for me. Any ideas as to how I can get everything back? Thanks very much.