I think a better employer only looks at history insofar as it's a predictor of future potential. Gaps in employment history that relate to personal challenges,

I think a better employer only looks at history insofar as it's a predictor of future potential. Gaps in employment history that relate to personal challenges, be they medical, family related, or motivational, shouldn't be seen as black marks as long as they're resolved and skills are current. People may have grown during these periods more than you might think.