Heal, Boy

Much is made of the island's healing power on Lost. But when you think about it, there's a whole lot of healing happening off the Island.

Both Claire and Kate's mom were in the hospital, good as dead. And both survived long enough to see the castaways when they returned. Jack's wife came into the hospital looking permanently injured, and she had a full recovery.

Is this long-range island healing? Is it due to Jacob (who certainly helped Locke off-island)? I'm guessing it's healing due to plot convenience. These characters were needed, so they made it. Shannon's dad wasn't so necessary, so he bought it before we even got to know him.