It sounds like size is the source of your fear. I'd say go Thunder Road. It's first drop is probably comparable to Hurler's. And maybe that ride's consistent hills and drops will be a training ground for you. Eventually, the hills should feel smaller and smaller. When they do, you could move up to Intimidator. That ride's all hills with airtime at the crests. So if you have trouble with larger drops you should stay away until you don't. It's a very smooth ride though.

If you've ridden Carolina Cobra, then you should have no problem with Caroline Cyclone (beware, it's rough). And, I wouldn't think you'd find Vortex all that scary. Try a standing seat in the middle so you feel more protected. It's short and standing isn't too different than sitting really. Afterburn's one of the park's most intense coasters. But, if you sit in the middle of the train and in the middle of a row you'll feel, again, somewhat protected. Just close your eyes and give that a try. You'll just feel a lot of forces pushing on you and throwing you around. Eventually try it with your eyes open and learn the layout and its different elements.

There's really no prep for a flying coaster like Nighthawk. You've just got to dive in for that one. Or don't ride it until you really feel adventurous. I hope that this helps! Report back with your progress.

But, if you want to get used to the feeling, you could ride the junior woodie Woodstock Express, Ricochet, and Goldrusher. The drops aren't as big, but there are many of them. Maybe the size of the rides will make it easier to tackle. I'd say ride those until they're easy (and hopefully fun for you). Then, move up to Thunder Road and eventually Intimidator. And, if you like Cyclone, then I'd think you'd like Afterburn. It has some fun loops that are a bit intense, but no where near as shaky as Cyclones. The first drop is large, but you shouldn't get as much of a dropping feeling b/c it's not a straight drop and it's an inverted coaster.

How do those tips sound?

Also, my husband and I just left MB and he wanted me to ride Swamp Fox at Family Kingdom with him. How does this one compare to the Hurler at Carowinds? According to the stats I found online, Hurler is larger but goes about the same speed so I feel as though I should have rode Swamp Fox. I think the fact that everything else in the park is so small makes Swamp Fox seem so much larger and faster than Hurler. I desperately want to go to amusement parks and enjoy the rides instead of literally physically getting sick at the thought of riding. Please give me some advice! Thanks.