Building a Family Website

Four years ago, in an attempt to help keep family and friends updated on the health of the boys, I started the Curran Family Website. The website has proved to be very useful and therapeutic. During the boys' hospitalizations, I've used the blog feature to keep loved ones informed. During times of stressful events, I find blogging our about our medical experiences therapeutic. The family website has also provided a creative outlet and allowed me to connect with other SDS families from around the world. Through these connections, I have made friendships and learned more about the disease that affects two of my children.

If you are interested in building your own family website, consider your focus when looking at website options. There are several choices of free web hosting services on the internet. Many have the option to upgrade or add options for a small fee. If your primary focus is to share medical updates, you might consider using websites such as Carepages, Caringbridge or Blogger. The sites just mentioned need very little computer knowledge to "operate", yet provide an excellent forum for families to send out medical or family updates. If you would like more versatility and freedom of design, you might want to give such sites as 50megs, Family PlanIt, FamilyLobby or familydetails a shot. If you would prefer using your site to connect with other SDS families and friends, try Facebook or MySpace. Facebook and MySpace both have blog features (called notes in the Facebook application), that allow you to blog about any events you would like to share with others while also allowing you to have conversations with your approved list of friends.

Whatever your primary reason for having a website, there is an option on the internet for you! If you have absolutely no idea where to begin such a project, but have a keen interest in building your own family website, visit the Shwachman-Diamond America website. Browse through some of the SDS family website links we have listed, decide what you like about them, what you don't like and what options would work best for your family. You can use your family website in any way you choose. You can integrate family information, a blog with disease information along with highlightng your favorite websites, or may choose to have a simple website about your family without the frills. No matter what you choose, have fun!