How does cancelation affect your profile?

I have a family emergency and need to cancel an exchange. I talked to the host who was very understanding and they suggested I don’t cancel but just don’t show, so it doesn’t negatively affect my profile. I want to cancel instead because I want a chance to get my GP back from HE. I have never had to cancel or being canceled on. So I have no idea if it shows on your profile and how? Do you have any experience with cancellations?

TIA