I am very disappointed in the treatment I have received from ASF International. I have been diagnosed with Exercise Induced Anaphylaxis, a condition that causes life-threatening allergic reactions. Simply stated, after I exercise, my throat swells closed constricting my air passage. At all times I am required to carry an EpiPen (or self administered shot) that attempts to prevent Anaphylactic shock or death.
After joining a gym and payment plan with ASF International, I became symptomatic. I sent a doctor's note to the company which loosely detailed my condition. Two weeks later, I was informed that they didn't like the wording of the note and required that I submit another. I immediately complied; the note stated that my condition is life-threatening and permanent.
Just today, I was informed again that they will not cancel because the note does not specifically say that I have a disability. However, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America released an article in 2005 which clearly states that severe allergies are not only a disability, but severely allergic people are protected from discrimination by the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504. (Read the full article at www.aafa.org/display. Cfm? Id=9&sub=22&cont=308.) It is because of this that schools and work places are required to make modifications for people with allergies, no matter how severe they are.
Most of the customer service representatives that I have spoken with have been polite, though not at all helpful. Today, however, I spoke with customer service supervisor Danielle Valdez who was very rude. She continually argued and interrupted me and then ended the conversation by saying, I have worked with this company for two years, and I am sure that they will not cancel a membership over something as minor as allergies. Not only was this comment insensitive, but completely disrespectful. I have almost died three times because of my condition. (I have Emergency Room documentation to prove it.) Near death experiences are not constituted as minor in any medical book.
My situation could easily be resolved. I would love a full refund since I have not been able to use the gym membership once, (I have documentation to prove that as well) however, at this rate, I can't even get them to cancel. As an elementary school teacher, I work hard to give back to the community. I am not irresponsible with my finances, nor am I looking to beat the system. I am simply asking for what I deserve... To be treated fairly, respectfully, and appropriately.
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