This memo may be circulated - there have been many replies. - Muriel M Davidson One of the most important records any family should keep is one that records all illnesses that might have a bearing on future health. I have kept such a record - using CENSUS, Obituaries and Church Records -- in an obituary, read where donations may be sent -- it is often the cause of death. Genetic Research is a main reason for census and other records. It is not for public knowledge -- but for the family members. In my family, I have traced a multiple sclerosis gene back to 1829. My gr.gr.gr.grandmother Christiana Brown married Finley McIntosh, both from Glenelg, Inverness-shire, Scotland, came as Loyalists 1783. Finley died of "old age" in 1824, according to Will Probate. Christiana died in 1829 of "creeping paralysis" found in church records, also will probate records. This gene was a "skipper" - striking every other generation. The next one to become acquainted with this gene was a gr.aunt, again "creeping paralysis" - church records, obituary, and census. My youngest brother's name is, as yet, only in church records for baptism and marriage -- he has had Multiple Sclerosis for 36 years, now only 61. My oldest brother was buried recently -- of another family gene, Cancer. I use a card file system - can be on computer disk - but should be kept. Doctors like this type of information and I have had to refer to my file many times for other family members. All know I am the "keeper" of the Med-File as we have called it. IF you find there are too many deaths or same type illnesses in your family, there must be a recurring gene, doctors tell me. Hope the above will help someone, Muriel M. Davidson <Farquhar@netcom.ca>