Airline Ticket Restrictions

When purchasing a television, computer, or appliance we typically skip on the insurance package offered. It is usually only for a year or so and can adds hundreds onto the bill. My husband and I have yet to be dinged in our 9 years of this practice. *knock on wood*

BUT, when it comes to traveling we ALWAYS splurge for the protection. Have we had to use it? Well, no. It is a risk we're just not comfortable taking. We also prefer the convenience of transferable airline tickets.

It is important to check with each airlines policy about canceling or changing airline tickets. Certain flights may be eligible for refunds depending on the ticket holders situation, such as, an emergency medical issue. Other tickets may only be transferable to an equal or lesser value ticket. There are some airlines that are more forgiving than others.

My personal favorite is Southwest. They have a very unique business model that is highly revered. Not only for their loyalty to their customers but their employees as well. Perks in my eyes are their no hassle boarding, inexpensive air fare, and free bags (first two bags per passenger).

According to Southwest's costumer service commitment,  an 'unrestricted fare' is eligible for a full refund for future and missed flights. While the 'restricted fare' tickets can be transferred to another date without penalty as long as it is used "during the eligibility period printed on the ticket or Ticketless Travel authorization" (http://www.southwest.com/assets/pdfs/corporate-commitments/customer-service-commitment.pdf, page 6).

This is a great idea for those who will be traveling with family that are chronically ill. The medical emergency clause usually only applies to the person who holds that ticket. If it is a parent or extended family member you may have a hard time refunding your ticket.

It is hard to plan when a medical emergency might occur but with this alternative you can plan that much need vacation with a little more peace of mind.

Vacation for the Dialysis Patient

There are approximately 350,000 Americans on dialysis and for many that involves three 4 hour treatments a week; sometimes even more. This can limit their ability to do everyday things, such as working. So, you can imagine that vacationing would seem to be next to impossible.

I recently heard there are cruise ships that offer dialysis treatment centers aboard. Which are allowing these well deserving patients the opportunity to enjoy vacationing with family and friends on the open sea. 

One of the oldest companies offering this prospect is Dialysis at Sea (http://www.dialysisatsea.com/home.aspx). They have been around since 1977 and offer a wide variety of cruises, ranging from Alaska to Hawaii, Mexico to Europe. Each ship is equipped with state of the art Frensenius 2008K dialysis machine along with several certified dialysis nurses and a licensed, board certified nephrologist. 

The amenities don't stop there though. 

Renal diets need to be low in potassium, phosphorus, and protein. A build up of these nutrients can cause serious complications. The Dialysis at Sea website states, "Your special dietary needs will be accommodated by your ship's dining staff." A reassuring statement that implies they understand the importance of the renal patient's regime. 


Like many travel agents and resorts these days, they also offer travel insurance, which is a necessity for anyone journeying abroad with a pertinent health history. BUT, you must purchase this insurance within 10 days of the cruise deposit. This waives the 'pre-existing medical condition' clause. Look for my upcoming blog on travel insurance costs and benefits.


All in all, this seems to be a unique and safe way for the dialysis patient to get away from the everyday routine. Relaxation and fine food combined with the amenities of modern medicine all wrapped up in one great package. 


This concept has set my mind spinning on the other opportunities out there for those with serious medical conditions. Chances to escape from reality and partake in some much needed R&R! After all, happiness could very well be the best medicine.