<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by wharvey:
djrules,
In my opinion, this is not a situation where money should be the deciding factor. If I was in your situation, I would be there in the quickest way possible... and not spend time asking the travel board for advice. Ask yourself "How would you feel if your dad passed away before you got there and you knew you could have been there if you did not choose the money-saving option?"
Get to your DAD!!!! Quickly.
William</font>
Having been is this exact situation twice in the past year, I could not agree with this post more.
The first time I had about a day to figure it out and ended up on an Expedia disount fare. The second, I booked the the first flight I could get on and just bit the bullet. Both times, I was ready to use what miles I had, but was able to find a decent fare. I also found that every airline I called was more than helpful in offering options when I explained my situation, including how to purchase the miles I lacked to make the award, if needed. I also was told that there are certain fares that may apply, if a Doctor can certify the emergency (this can happen after you get there).
There will not be a third time for me, if you catch my drift... GET GOING!