One of PLAN’s most treasured networks belonged to Ken, a man in his 40’s who lived in a group home in Vancouver. Ken was supported by an organization, as well as by his mother, brother and a few close friends. It was Ken’s mother, Jean, who with the support of a connector first set up his Tyze network. Jean understood the value of communication, and was enthusiastic about using an online network to help Ken to stay in touch with the people who were most important to him. And, like all mothers, she worried about what would happen to Ken once she was gone.

During the good times, Ken’s network was a wonderful way for the people who cared about him to stay in touch. Ken didn’t read or write, but he loved to sit with the staff members at his group home and dictate messages that were then posted to his Tyze network. Ken loved to talk on the phone but was often quite difficult to understand. His network members appreciated reading his updates on Tyze because now, when he called, they could ask him about the ball game he’d been to the previous day, or the trip to the beach that they’d read about on Tyze. Now there was always plenty to talk about.

Ken’s Tyze network became even more valuable during the difficult times in his life. Ken needed to have heart surgery. He was understandably anxious, and appreciated the support of his network members more than ever. People posted messages to his Tyze site letting Ken know that he would have so much more energy after the surgery. They used the Tyze calendar to schedule visits to the hospital, and the story page to share news of his recovery.