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There are two kinds of people in the world: people who always buy warranty and insurance options, and people who don't.
The former do this because they know that things pop up unexpectedly, and it's easier to spend a little more money up front than to regret it later.
That wasn't what TikToker Caitlin of @caitbai or her parents were thinking when her parents booked a cruise with Carnival Cruise back in May for later in the holiday season.
Caitlin knew her parents were excited about the trip, and she was pleased they were doing this for themselves. But when Caitlin's mother died suddenly and unexpectedly, a cruise was the furthest thing from anyone's mind.
Sitting in her car in uniform, the TikToker vented:
"I've been making all of the arrangements for [my dad]. They were married for 38 years, so obviously he's not doing okay."
While helping her father make arrangements, the TikToker also called Carnival Cruise to explain what happened and to ask about the next steps.
Because they had not purchased Carnival Cruise Protection or other travel insurance, not only would her father have to pay a $1,371 cancelation fee, but he also would not be refunded the money for the trip.
The only way to appeal and receive some of the money back would be to email a copy of Caitlin's mother's death certificate and hope to hear back in 30 days or more.
Caitlin continued:
"So because my mother unexpectedly passed away without purchasing Carnival Cruise Protection, my dad is going to be out 2,134 dollars. How is that okay?"
"Please help me."
You can watch the video here:
Some were sympathetic but pointed out this was exactly what the protection plan would prevent.
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Others disagreed and expected Carnival Cruise to do better.
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Some suggested that the TikToker reach out to John Heald, who is the current Ambassador for Carnival Cruises.
In a follow-up video, the TikToker had a happy update and said that she and her father would not have to pay the cancelation fee, and they would receive a refund for the trip.
"John recently lost his mother, too, a couple of months ago, so I think my situation made him feel some type of way."
You can watch the update video here:
Though it's helpful to purchase insurance and warranty packages, they are often too expensive or not readily available. It's nice to know that something could be done for this family.
Empathy has its place, even when there are rules for situations like this.