Norwegian Cruise Line Controversy: Family of 5-Year-Old Boy with Cancer Upset After Company Refuses to Reschedule
Norwegian Cruise Line is embroiled in controversy after refusing to allow a New York family to reschedule their vacation. The family had to change plans after realizing their 5-year-old son's cancer diagnosis would prevent them from traveling during the scheduled time.
The Colucci family was set to go on a Nickelodeon-themed cruise on June 1. But Nicolas Colucci was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in his liver on May 19, and the family wasn't able to make the trip, Fox News reported.
In treatment, doctors removed 60 percent of Nicolas' liver, his gall bladder, part of his diaphragm and his lymph nodes, according to the Daily Mail.
When the family called Norwegian to ask if they could reschedule the trip because of the unforeseen circumstances, the Coluccis were given the company's standard line: Any cancellation within 14 days or less of the sail date is subject to a 100 percent cancellation fee.
"I felt that a cruise line that is family-oriented, who caters to families. ... It was a Nickelodeon cruise. I was just astounded," Philip Colucci told Fox & Friends. "I couldn't believe that they wouldn't help them out."
Tara Colucci told the show that when Norwegian heard the circumstances surrounding the cancellation, the company told her that she should have gotten travelers insurance, which likely would have allowed for a rebooking.
In a statement, Norwegian said, "Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with the Colucci family and we wish Nicolas a speedy recovery. ... After reviewing the request of the Colucci family, we spoke with the family and explained that while we couldn't make an exception to our policy, we would assist them when they were ready to rebook their cruise."
After hearing about the Colucci's situation, the CEO from another cruise line told the family that they could have a free cruise on his line whenever Nicolas was ready.
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