Continental Airlines ripoff Houston Texas

I booked a trip for 2 people with Continental Airlines, for May 15 to May 22 to the Dominican Republic, but my mom had tohave surgery done on that same day...I called their office immediatly 3 days before the trip to explain the situation in hope that I would get my money back...

I was told to go to their office which was more than one hour away and bring any documentation as proof of such surgery which I did, but After I got to their office with proof in hand, I was told once again that the tickets were nonrefundable...Why was I asked to drive to their office in the first place?...While in their office I forced myself to accept their "Travel Certificate" which was offered to me for only one ticket...I was placed in a "no win" situation,and under the circumstances I felt it was better than losing the whole amount of $866.60..I would much rather have my money back.

My common sense tells me there's no such thing as anything being non-refundable especially like in my case, there was a real unexpected emergency, and feel that I was ripped off..I don't know what to do other than going to the B.B.B...Any other suggestion from you will be greatly appreciate it..Thank You,

Michael
seaside hts., New Jersey
U.S.A.