Peter got ALS and spent his last days raising money for research.
His last wish was to release a song that would raise money for the ALS Foundation.
Now the song “Gold” recorded by Anders Bagge is released.
Three years ago, Peter Bengtsson was diagnosed with ALS. In March of this year, he died as a result of the disease, aged just 58. But Peter was a man who enjoyed life, a social and happy person and an entrepreneur, full of ideas. Since receiving his diagnosis, Peter has devoted almost all of his time to contributing to fundraising for ALS research.
– At first we were of course sunk, it was as Peter used to describe it, ending up in a black dark pit somewhere. But slowly we climbed back into life and decided that no, now we have to do something. And Peter was so determined that he would contribute to what followed, says Peter’s widow Camilla Holmberg.
Manufactured bracelets
Peter and Camilla started by making bracelets, and then the projects just got more and more. In his last years, Peter put all his energy into various projects that could contribute to the work of the ALS Foundation.
– He was never satisfied, he always wanted more, smiles Camilla.
Peter’s last wish
Peter’s last wish was to release a song, the proceeds of which would go to research. The song was written by friend and colleague Mikael Nilsson, and then Peter started looking for a singer to record the song. Thereby he contacted Anders Bagge to ask for help. But when Anders heard the song, the words went straight to the heart, he tells Nyhetsmorgon.
– When I got it, I just felt like, nah, I want to sing this. So I called back and asked: is it okay if I sing? “Yes!” Peter said then.
– As a public person and if you can have a positive influence, then I think there is a small obligation to spend a small piece of your career on doing something good, adds Anders.
Heard his song
When Peter got worse, it went quickly. The day before his death, he heard the final version of the song in the hospital. The next day, March 18, he fell asleep. And on Friday, May 26, the song “Gold” was released, which became Peter’s last wish. The money goes directly to ALS research, and is a tribute to Peter.
– Peter loved life, he loved meeting new people and contributing to something new, and that everyone would have a good time. Peter laughed every day and we did together, always. Our life was about love, says Camilla.
Listen to the song “Gold” in the player below.