Originally Posted by
exerda
But typically, IME, UA doesn't allow free changes due to illness
Actually, they do. Section 0105.C.V.2 of the
http://content.united.com/ual/asset/COC24junfinal.pdf states, in part:
IN THE EVENT OF A TRAVEL EMERGENCY OUT OF THE CONTROL OF THE PASSENGER AND UPON SUBMITTING APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION TO THE REFUNDS DEPARTMENT, UA WILL REFUND ANY CHANGE/PENALTY/CANCELLATION FEE APPLIED TO ITINERARY CHANGES DUE TO THE FOLLOWING. TRAVEL EMERGENCIES ARE DEFINED AS:
(...)
SERIOUS ILLNESS OF THE PASSENGER, TRAVELING COMPANIONS OR IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION: DOCTOR'S NOTE STATING INABILITY TO FLY
So, with a doctor's note, UA should provide a free change.