A life in the service of love

Just before the Christmas holidays, the news came that Ulla Nilsson has passed away. Ulla was 91 years old and was involved in Erikshjälpens activities to the very end. Ulla met Erik Nilsson, the founder of Erikshjälpen, in the late 1950s and they found each other even though the geographical distance between them was long. They started exchanging letters, met at a train station and became a couple - against all odds.

Ulla and Erik married in 1958. By then, Erik had already started work on what would later become Erikshjälpen. Erik suffered from an incurable hemophilia and when he was hospitalized for long periods, Ulla kept the work going. She is the founder of the successful "Systerns låda", which brought joy to generations of sick children in Sweden, and when Erik passed away in 1966, it was Ulla who ensured that the work could continue.

Ulla was cautious and withdrawn, but also determined and realistic with a wonderful sense of humor and generosity. She was always interested in Erikshjälpen's work and always concerned that every krona that came in would be used correctly. Her presence and deep friendship with both staff and donors has over the years given security and stability to Erikshjälpen.

As natural as it is for a 91-year-old to leave this earthly life, it is equally sad that she is no longer around. While there is a tremendous sadness and loss, there is also a tremendous gratitude for all the good that Ulla accomplished during her time here on earth. All thoughts are with Ulla and Erik's beloved children and their respective families.