Former Feyenoord striker and stadium announcer Peter Houtman is speaking openly about his Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, partnering with music group De Wannebiezz to release the single “Voor ik het vergeet” and raise awareness for the condition.
The former Netherlands international, who was recently spotted visiting supporters in Barcelona, discovered his condition by accident during routine circumstances.
Releasing “Voor ik het vergeet” to Help Others
The single “Voor ik het vergeet” was produced in collaboration with De Wannebiezz and released on World Alzheimer’s Day, September 21, to offer a personal and accessible look at the early stages of the condition.
I have received a terribly large number of reactions, from all parts of the country. As far as that goes, I cannot complain.”
De Wannebiezz developed a warm friendship with Houtman over the years through his frequent spontaneous appearances at their shows, where he often grabbed the microphone to sing. When he received his diagnosis, the musical group decided to turn the situation into a tribute that also offers solace to patients and families facing the early stages of cognitive decline.
Organizations such as Alzheimer Nederland and DemenTalent responded enthusiastically to the single, praising its combination of emotional resonance and positive message. Houtman’s core advice to others is straightforward: do not walk around with doubts about Alzheimer’s, but talk about it openly.
Maintaining a Lifelong Bond with Feyenoord
Despite stepping back from his professional stadium duties in 2025, Houtman remains a constant presence around Feyenoord and continues to attend matches whenever possible. He acknowledges that the reality of watching his lifelong club has shifted significantly since his diagnosis.
“I also try to go and watch as much as possible, but it has all just become a bit different,” Houtman told Omroep West. While admitting that dealing with the illness is difficult—stating plainly, “I find it annoying enough that I am dealing with it”—he maintains his characteristic humor when asked if he could ever return as a striker for Feyenoord’s first team. “I can try it, but age is also going to play a part,” he joked.
Fundraising and Community Support Across Rotterdam
Thirty Rotterdam entrepreneurs stepped forward to finance the production and distribution costs of “Voor ik het vergeet,” ensuring that 100% of the commercial revenue goes toward scientific research into Alzheimer’s disease.
Public response to the track has overwhelmed the former footballer, who remains grateful for the messages pouring in from every corner of the country. By sharing his personal journey, Houtman hopes to dismantle the stigma surrounding cognitive impairment and encourage early diagnosis and open dialogue for patients and their families.
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