I was really interested in this topic because almost two years ago my grandfather died in his own filth and clutter. They told us that he died of the Hantavirus, which apparently is a pulmonary condition caused by breathing dust contaminated by rat droppings.
My sister and I accompanied my aunt to his trailers out in the desert to pay our last respects and attempt to salvage some small piece of our family history. I did not get along with my grandfather because he was abusive to my mother and surrounded her with violence and filth. My mom died at forty-four and I always resented him for causing so much internal chaos and sadness.
We went to support my aunt. When we arrived at his property, the first thing that we found was a swamp of human feces and urine immediately outside the front door. We wore face masks, long pants, long sleeve shirts, and gloves. The smell inside the trailer was almost unbearable and I could not believe that I was any relation to this man. My wonderful aunt, beautiful sister, inspiring mother, all with his blood flowing through our veins.
Upon entering the first of several trailers, I was so angry I began to cry and my tears seemed to spit with force from my eyes. I believed my grandfather was a madman and I hated him even more. After about four hours of sifting through rotten food, dead rats, boxes of brand new socks and gloves- you name it- I talked my aunt into walking away. I believe that ultimately the State set fire to the trailers. One entire life up in smoke.
I am thankful that Dr. Phil brought this subject to light for me and for other families that are living in this chaos. I truly believe that this tragic upbringing played a role in my mother's untimely death. I am glad that Dr. Phil did not just go to the house of this man and "throw it all out" because he would have merely recreated it all over again. I wish someone would have been there to recognize and guide my grandfather in the same way.
I wish the best for the families on the show. They appeared to be good people that deserve to enjoy peace and love in this lifetime.
