I think my friends should refund my vacation money, but they refuse

DEAR ABBY: I’m part of a small group of women who enjoy traveling together internationally. We have a system: one person researches and books our accommodations (something she loves to do), and then we each pay her our share. We book our flights separately.

For our most recent trip, I had to cancel three months in advance because of illness. I had already paid nearly $800 toward lodging and car rental. When I asked if I could be refunded, the group refused, saying my cancellation increased their costs and it wasn’t their responsibility to cover my decision not to go.

I feel like I’m now subsidizing their vacation, but they don’t see it that way. Am I wrong to expect at least part of my money back, or am I being unfair? — STAYING HOME IN THE EAST

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