Posted on December 15, 2024
A devastating personal tragedy shaped Eric’s journey. Born in Kapelle-op-den-Bos, Belgium, he grew up near the Eternit asbestos-cement factory, trusting the local industry that would later irreparably harm his family. His father, Pierre, and uncle, Jacques, worked at the factory, unknowingly exposing their loved ones to lethal asbestos fibers. In 1987, Pierre succumbed to mesothelioma, a loss that marked the beginning of a cascade of sorrow for the Jonckheere family.
Eric’s mother, Francoise, later faced the same diagnosis. Offered hush money to stay silent about her exposure, Francoise refused, prioritizing the truth over wealth. Tragically, she too passed away, as did Eric’s two brothers, Pierre-Paul at 44 and Stéphane at 46, all victims of mesothelioma. Together, the family became emblematic of the indiscriminate suffering caused by asbestos exposure.
Following Francoise’s example, Eric and his brothers vowed to continue her fight. Francoise co-founded ABEVA, the Belgian Association of Asbestos Victims, and Eric ultimately became its president, dedicating his life to seeking justice and systemic change. He was instrumental in establishing Belgium’s nationwide Asbestos Fund in 2007, providing financial compensation to victims, and in achieving a groundbreaking legal victory against Eternit in 2013.
Eric’s advocacy extended far beyond Belgium. As an international spokesperson and recipient of ADAO’s 2018 Alan Reinstein Memorial Award, he shared his family’s story to awaken global audiences to the dangers of asbestos and the necessity of action. His voice was firm yet compassionate, driven by the belief that justice must be pursued relentlessly.
Eric also collaborated with filmmaker Daniel Lambo on the acclaimed documentary Breathless. This powerful film chronicles the devastating toll of asbestos exposure in Eric’s village and follows Lambo’s journey to uncover the dark truths of the asbestos industry. Together, they illuminated the ongoing dangers posed by asbestos in communities worldwide, from Belgium to the largest asbestos waste dump in India. The film’s gripping narrative of individuals battling a booming industry stands as a testament to Eric’s lifelong mission to save lives and hold polluters accountable.
Eric was also a storyteller in his own right. His book, Asbestos: My War with the Devil’s Dust, illuminated the stark realities of asbestos exposure and inspired many to join the fight. His commitment to exposing corporate negligence, lobbying policymakers, and fostering grassroots activism reflected his unyielding determination to hold polluters accountable and protect future generations.
Today, the world mourns the loss of a visionary leader whose life exemplified courage, resilience, and a profound dedication to justice. At ADAO, we honor Eric’s memory by recommitting ourselves to his dream of a future free from asbestos and the suffering it causes.
Eric Jonckheere’s story is a reminder that advocacy is a personal and collective endeavor. May his legacy continue to inspire change and save lives. ADAO sends our deep condolences to his family and friends in Belgium and around the world.
With deep respect and sadness,
Linda Reinstein, President & Co-Founder, Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization
