onisagi-
What is your real complaint with Southwest? Your whole first post is nothing but a huge bash fest, most of which is completely false anyway. But at the same time you didn't say one word about what went wrong.
Generally if you provide a doctors note, they will make exceptions. When you called, did you lay into them like you have here? Maybe that's why you didn't get anywhere. Also, have you read their contract of carriage? In case you are not familiar with this, EVERY airline must have a contract of carriage (COC). When you purchase your ticket, you agree to the COC. And this is your rights, and the carrier's rights. By law they have to be readily available from the airline anywhere you purchase your ticket, so take a look at Southwest's website, and you will find it.
Just to make it easier for you:
http://www.southwest.com/travel_center/contract.html
Did you book with a credit card? If so, have you called them? They may still be able to credit the amount back.