Need advice, missed connection on award
My sis-in-law (1K) and niece were flying LH in C (on UA award) LAX-FRA-FCO yesterday/today.
At FRA, my niece was feeling ill and my SIL took her into the LH lounge (to spend some time in bathroom and get water) and missed their flight.
There were two Y seats on next flight FRA to FCO but LH wouldnt touch the ticket and rebook her. No award space available (called UA from FRA) so she was forced to buy 2 walk up Y tickets for about $1500!!!
This seems so wrong to me. Assuming there is no travel insurance, does anyone have any suggestions on how to handle/resolve?