I guess I'm in a similar "predicament". I'm currently Platinum, have 10 years of Platinum status, and 568 nights, i.e. lacking 32 nights for life-time Platinum status. There's no way for me to renew my platinum status organically this year since we had a baby and can't travel much, meaning I expect to be downgraded to Gold sometime in spring 2026. I assume once I complete those 32 nights, I'll instantly be upgraded from Gold to (lifetime) Platinum, but during that time I'll be Gold for a few months... Traveling with the baby next year, we'd really appreciate the breakfast and lounge access that comes with Plat...

Is there any way to keep Platinum a while longer? Previously there used to some kind of Platinum challenge I believe, but not sure how that works. Or do you think it's worthwhile begging Marriott to keep my Platinum status a few months longer till I can complete the 32 nights next year?

Thank you!!