File Deletion Problem

My friend recently had her computer upgraded to Windows 7 from Vista. She used the Vista StickyNotes program to keep track of important information. I told her that this program wasn't intended for permanent information storage, but she liked it because it was simple. She upgraded her computer to Windows 7, and now her sticky notes are gone.

My question is this: Is there any way to retrieve those old sticky notes?

I told her in all honesty that I think they are gone unless she wants to pay big bucks to go to a forensic type agency that could pull the information off. I just need another opinion. I hope I'm wrong.

I also hope I gave enough information and explained the situation with enough detail.