Letters: We're facing a hoarding epidemic
While the opioid crisis is in the headlines, there's another hidden epidemic: Hoarding. I'm thinking it's a Baby Boomer problem, since, I'm told, it generally starts when a person is in his or her 60s.
I flew out of state to visit a close relative in the hospital who had life-altering cancer surgery.
Even though I knew we shared a gene for hoarding and clutter and was expecting it would take a lot of work, I figured we could clear a path for healthcare workers to attend to him once he got home. Ha. I was not prepared for what I encountered, starting with his car and trunk - filled with newspapers and plastic bottles and cans for recycling. His heart is in the right place.
The professional company we hired was featured in a segment on the Hoarders TV show. The guys and several contractors said it was one of the worst houses they've seen.
He suffered with ulcerative colitis and was suffering with a lot more than he let on. Even though we joked about our affinity for collecting stuff, it's no joking matter. I consider it a national health crisis, caused by many factors, including physical health issues and mental health issues. It's very sad.
Just about everyone I've talked to - as I help make a safe environment for him -tells me they know someone who is a hoarder, lives with one or thinks they may be one.
You better believe that when I get home, I'll be clearing out my clutter. It's not easy, but I've seen my future, and I need to take steps now for it not to become reality.
Connie Arkus
Schaumburg