Originally Posted by
view-with-a-room
The hotel would have a vested interest in the room so better to call the hotel directly and discuss options. Cancellations and no shows for award nights appear to be associated with excessive penalty so best to work out the issue in advance.
For any issues with last minute cancellations (awards or $$), I always call the hotel and ask nicely. You never know who you might get. Be nice, it helps them be in a nicer mood too.