I am finding that when I buy United tickets, one has the right to pay some extra dollars for cancellation insurance. I haven't studied the details (do you have to be on death's door)? but it's a recent option I'm sure all of the airlines are offering.
Trip cancellation and protection.
I've been earthling out a new policy.
http://www.hthtravelinsurance.com/prdCobra..._protection.cfmthis is one of the best policies I've been able to find!