The problem here is that we all have a "special" circumstance that we think warrants some empathy. Although we don't like it, we do have an alternative though as we can buy fully refundable tickets (granted at a premium, which takes into account that we can then cancel/change the ticket).
I am really tired of hearing people suggesting that fully refundable tickets are an alternative. Legally they may be but in virtually all cases, the fare difference is so great that they are not a viable alternative -- unless one has a hefty corporate discount.
Welcome to FT,
hypnodyno!