My Journey Working with a Hoarder: An Unforgettable Experience
For approximately five years, I dedicated myself to assisting a woman struggling with severe hoarding tendencies. She initially reached out to me through a Craigslist advertisement, desperate for help. When I first answered the phone, her voice immediately cracked with emotion. “I’m sorry,” she sobbed, “I thought this would be easier.”
Comforting her, I asked, “How can I assist you?” She explained that her hoarding began shortly after her mother passed away three years earlier. She had accumulated all her mother’s belongings in her home, which led to an uncontrollable influx of clutter. Since then, she found herself unable to part with any possessions. Over time, her lifestyle deteriorated, and her health was affected—both she and her husband started experiencing respiratory issues. Last week, her husband even threatened to leave unless significant changes were made. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, I accepted the challenge with a resolve to help her regain control.
Preparing for the Challenge: Expectations vs. Reality
Having watched the popular TV show Hoarders for years and having assisted clients exhibiting hoarding behaviors, I believed I was well-prepared. After all, I am a professional cleaner, affectionately known as The Cleaning Lady. However, stepping into her home proved to be far more daunting and emotionally taxing than I had anticipated.
First Impressions: The House in a Gated Community
I arrived at a sprawling Colonial-style residence nestled within a quiet, gated neighborhood. The yard was immaculately maintained—lawn trimmed, bushes neatly shaped, and flower beds filled with vibrant Zinnias and Pansies. For a moment, I questioned whether I was at the wrong address, but upon double-checking, I confirmed I was at the correct location. Approaching the front door, I rang the bell, which triggered an almost primal response from within—a cacophony of sounds reminiscent of a horde trying to break through a barrier. Then I heard a woman yelling and unlocking the door from the inside. For a moment, I felt a surge of apprehension, fearing I might be attacked. But the door swung open to reveal a warm-looking woman with a cherubic face, accompanied by her three generously fat Labrador Retrievers, who eagerly sniffed and licked me. Relieved, I introduced myself and was invited inside.
Inside the Hoard: A Scene Straight from Hoarders
What I encountered was a living scene from Hoarders. The expansive foyer was filled from floor to ceiling with countless boxes—most of which appeared to be Amazon and QVC packages, many unopened and untouched. From this, I learned that compulsive shopping can often lead to overwhelming hoarding—purchasing items that never leave the boxes. Moving into the living room, I was met with piles of clothes scattered across the floor, draped over furniture, and stacked on tables. The only clear space was a narrow strip at the end of the couch, just enough to sit or stand. Shelves lining the walls were cluttered with a multitude of knickknacks, giving the impression of a thrift store, but coated in a thick layer of dust. The entire house emitted a musty, stale odor, indicative of neglect and accumulated grime. I couldn’t help but feel a mixture of shock and anxiety, attempting to hide my rising panic behind a forced smile. My internal monologue was: “This is dangerous—black lung, pneumonia, tuberculosis—oh my.”
The Kitchen and Dining Area: Overrun and Overwhelmed
The kitchen was equally chaotic, with no visible counter space—just stacks of dishes, glasses, and pots everywhere. Most items seemed clean but were crammed into every available nook. The dining room resembled a disaster zone, as if a mail truck had exploded in it, with papers, envelopes, and packages scattered across the floor and table. Nod and smile, stay professional.
The Bedroom Sanctuary: A Slightly Safer Space
The master bedroom was located off the main hallway and surprisingly appeared relatively tidy. The bed was neatly made with ornate pillows and a sequined duvet cover. The woman explained, “My husband stays in this room,” and I noticed he seemed to keep his space presentable. She added, “I do my best to keep it nice for him.” I nodded and smiled, trying to hide my concern. Upstairs, there were four additional bedrooms, but she was unable to open their doors anymore—they were completely filled with clutter. The sight of these sealed-off spaces added to my mental fatigue, as I struggled to process the overwhelming scope of the hoarding problem.
Assessing the Situation: A Difficult Reality
She asked, “So, what do you think?” I wanted to be honest and suggest she seek professional help from specialized hoarding intervention services. Instead, I nodded, smiled sincerely, and accepted the challenge, knowing that this was just the beginning of a long journey toward recovery.
To be continued in Part 2…
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