Hi,
Just a note about medication. There is an anti-anxiety medication that is prescribed often for those flying. If you choose to investigate this option, I have suggestions.
1. Ask the dr. for a prescription of no more than 20 pills. No one needs extra medications around the house.
2. Ask the dr. for a low dose pill. That way, you can take a small amount, just to take the fear down a notch.
3. Take the pill after you are through security. It does not take long to take effect.
I also like the idea of trying medication out before you fly. That way you will know what your personal reaction to the medication is. Even in the lowest dose, there is a score line, which allows you to cut the pill in half, if you need less.
The best story I can tell you happened a few years ago. We were on the runway, waiting for thunderstorms to move on, and the lady behind us was getting very anxious. The gentleman next to her started up a conversation, and explained he was a pilot, returning home. He assured her that the person in charge of flying this plane was another pilot, who fully intended to get home tonight, and would not do anything to jeopardize that. I thought that was a very reassuring thought to hold onto, if my mind ever became overwhelmed with anxiety on a flight. All my best.