Marlys59, I know how a panic attack can scare you. Unless someone has experienced one they could not imagine what it is like. I have had them since I was 17, I am 55 now. If you find that the ativan doesn't work, ask them to change it. I use Xanax and it has helped me over the years with panic attacks and it is the only thing that works for me. I to will soon start radiation and I can tell you I am scared, but I plan on giving this fight everything I have to beat this. I hope you get back in treatments asap, your life depends on it. And I know what amazing strength women have as we display that every day. God Bless and pm me if you need to talk about panic attacks. Angel