Photo: Bildbyrån
NHL pioneer Ulf Sterner collapsed at home on his farm a couple of years ago.
The doctors found that he had an infection in the brain and his memory deteriorated severely.
It is now clear that the hockey legend is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
He is one of Sweden’s biggest players of all time and made a big name in both Tre Kronor and away in the NHL. Ulf Sterner84, the first Swede was in place when he signed for the New York Rangers for the 1964/1965 season. He made 208 international matches for Tre Kronor, won the World Cup gold in 1962 and played for Färjestad, Västra Frölunda and Rögle. He is above all a club legend in Färjestad, where his sweater is hoisted.
Sterner collapsed in the home
Everyday Sterner lives in Karlstad with his wife Pia Sterner70 – She also a pioneer in Swedish ice hockey. In 2019, Ulf collapsed at home on their farm and he was found by Pia when she came home from work. His blood pressure was really high and he went by ambulance to the hospital. The doctors discovered an infection that was spread to the brain and he had to be cared for for several weeks. His memory quickly became worse.
“He didn’t know his name,” said his name, Pia tells NWT.
Read more: Hockey legend Ulf Sterner minutes from death: “The brain was exploding”
In December 2020, Ulf Sterner conducted a memory examination and it was found that he is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
– When people get to know, they say “God, what horrible”. Yes, in the beginning I was so angry. I didn’t understand why I was so angry, but it was certainly disappointed that life will not be as we planned. We wanted to go to the US and Canada and go around for months. But now I feel gratitude. We have been everywhere, on our bucket list there is not much left, says Pia.
Sterner wants to see Färjestad play
Right now it is not relevant for Ulf to stay at a home. Pia wants to take care of him on their farm. She retired immediately when he was told about the disease.
– We have had a fantastic life together. Love is so great. We have the same interests, we have traveled and raised family. It is not on the map that he would move from here!, She says.
Read more: Ulf Sterner’s sudden criticism of the big gala – couldn’t keep from saying: “Don’t be sad, but …”
She says they sit at home and watch a lot of sports. Recently they were at the Sports Gala, but it’s not often they are out in town anymore. He can’t cope. Actually, they would like to go together in the Ferry City matches, but there will be too much impression for Ulf Sterner.
So sad to hear about this. Ulf Sterner is a real legend that deserves all respect. Keep fighting!
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