Ep 2. In Sickness and In Wealth

In Sickness and In Wealth is an episode of the popular reality TV show Extreme Cheapskates, which first aired during season 3. The show follows individuals who go to extreme lengths to save money, often at the expense of their quality of life or the people around them. Each episode showcases different individuals and their unique approaches to saving money, often pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable or ethical.

In this particular episode, viewers are introduced to several extreme cheapskates who are dealing with various health issues and medical expenses. The episode examines the ways in which these individuals try to save money on medical costs, often resorting to unconventional or risky methods.

The first segment of the episode follows a woman named Sarah, who suffers from chronic migraines. Instead of seeking medical attention, Sarah relies on a series of bizarre home remedies to alleviate her symptoms, such as placing cabbage leaves on her head and drinking a mixture of vinegar and honey. She also avoids purchasing over-the-counter pain medication by haggling with pharmacists and utilizing coupons. However, these methods often leave Sarah in significant pain and discomfort, making it difficult for her to lead a normal life.

Next, viewers are introduced to a man named Mark, who has a severe dental issue but refuses to seek treatment due to the cost. Instead, Mark turns to DIY dentistry by creating his own makeshift braces and filling his cavities with superglue. His methods are not only unsanitary, but they also pose a serious risk to his health. Despite the potential dangers, Mark believes that his extreme cheapskate lifestyle is worth the risk to save money on expensive medical treatments.

Finally, the episode follows a family who are dealing with a serious medical crisis. The family's infant daughter was born premature and is currently in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The medical bills for her care are exorbitant, but the family is determined to save money wherever possible. They resort to extreme measures such as reusing diapers and creating their own breast milk, which is not recommended by medical professionals. While the family's intentions are admirable, their methods put their daughter's health at risk and highlight the dangers of extreme cheapskate behavior.

Overall, In Sickness and In Wealth is a thought-provoking episode that examines the lengths that extreme cheapskates will go to in order to save money on medical expenses. While some of the methods used by the individuals featured in the episode are alarming and potentially dangerous, their stories shed light on the high cost of healthcare in America and the difficulties that many families face in accessing necessary medical treatment.