[Disappointed 77]

My mother fell ill and was admitted into ICU,and sadly passed away during the time that I was visiting her in South Africa. She was put on life-support a few days prior to my due outbound flight back to London. I made an enquiry regarding an amendment to my return date with Air France directly and was told to contact the agent through which I had booked my flight. On doing so I was offered a date change but it came at a fee of 200 pounds, the same price of a one-way ticket to London. I did not argue and let it go as I had my mom to worry about. After my mom's death I was urged by family to enquire again as I was told that an airline 'had to' assist me in my case and that I would certainly get compensation for missing my flight.
After a few lengthy phone calls to my online travel agent I was told that it was not in their policy to offer a refund,even in my case, and that they would make an enquiry with Air France. After providing necessary documents (doctor's letter, hospital and death certificates) and explaining my situation, I was again turned down.

I'm not sure how many airlines do or do not offer refunds or date amendments in cases such as mine but I am appalled that Air France do not, and think that all airlines should do so in the case of the death of a close relative/friend/partner.
I'm disgusted and angry that on top of everything I have had to deal with this and feel ashamed that I had to ask and ask again for something that should've been a given, and feel guilty that money should've played a role during my bereavement.
Because of their greed and 'lack of compassion' policy, and other issues I have with Air France (they carry animals used for experiments - again, no compassion), I will NEVER fly with them again.
Thanks for nothing. AU Revoir.