Ep 9. A Million Excuses

In the ninth episode of Hoarding: Buried Alive season 1, titled "A Million Excuses", viewers are introduced to a 53-year-old woman named Gail who has been hoarding for over 30 years. Her house is filled with piles of clutter, garbage, and items she has collected over the years, leaving very little room for her and her cats to move around.

Gail's hoarding began after the death of her mother when she was only 21 years old. She turned to collecting items as a way to fill the void that her mother's death had left in her life. Over time, her hoarding spiraled out of control, and she is now struggling to get rid of anything.

Gail's daughter, Katelynn, is extremely concerned about her mother's well-being. She and her husband have even offered to buy Gail a new house and pay for all of the expenses associated with moving, but Gail continues to come up with excuses as to why she can't leave her current home.

Due to the excessive amount of mold and clutter in Gail's home, Katelynn is worried that her mother's health may be in danger. Gail suffers from COPD, and the unsanitary conditions in her home could make her condition worse.

Katelynn and a professional organizer attempt to help Gail clean up her home, but Gail becomes agitated and overwhelmed. She insists that she needs to keep everything and refuses to part with any of her possessions.

As the episode progresses, viewers see Gail's living conditions become even worse. She starts using buckets instead of the toilet because the bathroom is filled with clutter, and her animals are not being properly cared for.

Katelynn becomes increasingly frustrated with her mother's hoarding and the toll it has taken on their relationship. Gail continues to make excuses as to why she can't get rid of anything, leaving Katelynn feeling helpless and unable to provide the support that her mother needs.

In the end, the episode reveals the consequences of hoarding and how it can destroy relationships, health, and livelihoods. It highlights the importance of seeking help for those who suffer from hoarding disorder, as it is not only a detriment to the individual but also to their loved ones.