Q: Replacing "T" Mag Safe Adapter

Typically, I do not participate on these sorts of boards; however, I have had a pretty unfortunate experience today with Apple which I'd like to not only communicate but also seek help. As a preface, the city I live does not have an official Apple Store but only an Authorized Servicer.

As some of you might know already, there was a recent class action lawsuit put against Apple regarding the model "T" Mag Safe Adapter. Rather than going to court, they decided to settle. For those that purchased replacement cords, they were able to be refunded the full or partial amount; for those that did not, but experienced fraying (http://support.apple.com/kb/TS4127), they'd be able to receive a new adapter under Apple's Adapter Replacement Program by either going to an Authorized Servicer, an actual Apple Store, or by calling Apple Care.

When I went to the Authorized Servicer, they were of no help, stating that I would have to go to an actual store.

When I called Apple Care they incorrectly told me that the replacement was only good for up to three years since the purchase of the laptop. This was told to me despite the clear statement communicated on the Class Action Lawsuit website, https://www.adaptersettlement.com/.

Under the FAQ it was stated:

"For Adapters shipped with a Subject Computer, you will have three years from the date of purchase of the Subject Computer or May 21, 2012, whichever is later, to claim a replacement adapter. For Adapters purchased separately, you will have three years from the date of purchase of the Adapter or May 21, 2012, whichever is later, to claim a replacement. If you do not claim a replacement adapter within these time periods, you will lose your right to obtain a replacement. Apple will continue the Adapter Replacement Program until December 31, 2012; Apple will have no obligation to honor adapter replacement claims made after December 31, 2012. "

Obviously, May 21, 2012 has not occurred yet and therefore I ought to be able to replace my adapter.

Since I am still a poor college student, I'm not in the type of situation where I can simply drop $72 for a new adapter... Oh, yesterday the adapter completely stopped working due to the fraying...

Today Apple may have lost me as a customer.

If anyone has any suggestions for how I ought to proceed, please let me know.