Who is Kat Jenkins from Lost and what is their importance?

Kat Jenkins is Colum Jenkins's daughter, whom is believed to be a prostitute the whole first half of the book. Jenkins searches for her, but cannot seem to find her. However, after Jenkins's accident at the Ruge House, Kat is at his side in the hospital. It appears she has kept an eye on her dad all along. She seems protective of her father when they return to the Rudge House together to tell John that Jenkins will not be finishing his contract and collects his tools.