samsung sgh-t809 rebate

I bought a T-Mobile T809 from a local authorize dealer. They helping me submit the rebate online and tell me to mail the rest to T-Mobile rebate center. I got the letter back from the rebate center said that I need at least use the phone one time in order to valid the rebate. I explained to the customer service representative that I did not see the actual rebate form because the dealer help me submit online and that my phone was lost. Therefore, I am no way to make that one time call. Now, I lost my phone and rebate. I never heard of this kind of rebate before. I got the proof of my purchase and they will not make any exception for it. After this experience, since they not willing to make an exception, I for sure not going purchase any relate product from T-Mobile or recommend anyone.