Hilde Crevits, the outgoing Flemish Welfare Minister from the Christian Democrats and Flanders (CD&V), has publicly shared the heartbreaking news of losing both her parents within the span of a week. In a poignant post on Facebook, Crevits revealed that her mother passed away last week, followed by her father’s death from cancer just a week later.
In her emotional message, Crevits described her father’s struggle with cancer and the profound sense of loss she is experiencing. “He fought like a lion, but exactly a week after my mother, my father also lost his fight against cancer,” Crevits wrote. “They couldn’t be without each other, even now… It’s love, but it hurts so much right now.”
Crevits’ announcement came as a significant blow to her and her family, who are now navigating the grief of losing both parents so closely together. The timing of the tragedy also intersects with her professional responsibilities, as she is a key negotiator for the CD&V in the ongoing Flemish government formation talks.
Earlier this year, in May, Crevits had already curtailed her campaign activities due to her mother’s hospitalization, expressing her wish to spend more time with her. This decision underscored the personal impact that her family’s health crises had on her professional life. The additional loss of her father has only intensified the emotional strain on the Minister.
The loss of her parents has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from colleagues and political figures. Many have expressed their condolences and support for Crevits during this challenging time. The personal tragedy of losing both parents so closely together has drawn attention to the human side of public service and the personal sacrifices often made by those in high-profile roles.
Crevits, who has been an integral part of the CD&V’s leadership and the Flemish government, will continue to navigate her responsibilities amidst her mourning. Her commitment to her role as a negotiator for the CD&V highlights her dedication to her work despite the personal challenges she faces.
As the Flemish formation talks proceed, Crevits’ colleagues and political associates are likely to show increased empathy and support for her as she balances her professional duties with her personal grief. The period ahead will be a difficult one for the Minister as she comes to terms with her loss while continuing to fulfill her role in the ongoing political negotiations.
