How to get through something you severely dread/causes panic?

Hi, I am a middle aged female with severe OCD/GAD. I have to take a 4-night trip next week (by plane) that I seriously don't know how I am going to 'survive' (meaning cope with). I have absolutely no choice...I HAVE to go. I am barely able to function now that the time is drawing near because I am so freaked out. I am totally obsessed with the stress of the entire situation...both the plane and the nights away from home. I have terrible OCD (germaphobe), and the thought of being away from my 'safe' comfort zone is more than I am able to deal with. It's on my mind non-stop, and I can't control it.
How does anyone else get through these seemingly impossible situations? My family is annoyed with me 'cause it's all I talk about. I just can't wait until next Friday when I get home. Until then, I cannot think of anything else. Surely someone else understands this dread?! It would just be great to know I'm not alone in ever feeling like this!
(Currently not on meds, but I do have Ativan if necessary, but makes me so-o-o-o tired.)

Kitt,

Thanks for your reply. I will just white knuckle it and hope for the days to pass quickly. I plan to copy down some of the positive quotes I saw here, and read those frequently.

This anxiety deal is horrible! Very paralyzing. I'm sorry so many of us deal with it as it surely alters life.

Hello, I do not have ocd, but I get panic attacks, you know, you cant breathe and you think you will die. But what i have learned as bad as i feel i dont die. So you accept the distress and know it will go and you will be alright. This helps me, avoidance makes it worse, and each time you face your fear, acknowledge this as a positive, many others cannot face their fears. Good luck, I like this forum alot.