Since my appearance on “Hoarders" on A&E, I have been getting emails from viewers. They are hoarders who are desperate, overwhelmed and lost. I have to admit, some of these emails are heart wrenching and can be difficult to read. It leaves me feeling helpless. How can I possibly help someone who lives across the country that I have never met. Do I ignore these emails to avoid getting in too deep? Do I communicate with these individuals in the hopes I can help in some small way?

It sort of hit me today… I don’t think I am getting these emails because the writer wants me to perform miracles. I think I am getting these emails because the simple act of writing is cathartic. And not only that, once they are done writing they can actually send it to a real person who gets it. Writing and sending these emails may validate them in some way. Most importantly it may give them relief knowing they have been heard.

If I am right, I have a message for all hoarders… . I may not be able to respond to your emails right away or at all. But I am reading your emails and I get it. I understand your need to be understood.