I don't know alot about tapering as I never could do it that way! If I had the pills I was going to take them! Its a great option if you can stick to it.
I just wanted to drop in, welcome you, and throw my support your way! Hang in there! Others will be along shortly with some answers for ya!
One more thing... Alot of times the FEAR of Wd's is Worse than the actual experience.. IF you end up having to go cold turkey it probably won't be as bad as your imagining (although it's no cake walk).. It's comparable to a nasty case of the flu! :)
I wouldnt fear the wd's, i would fear what will happen if you continue using.
If you do the tapper you'll still fear the final pill. I like most couldn't do the tapper. We're all here to support you either way you go. God Bless