A woman in her `Iddah travelling for treatment

Q: I have been suffering from diabetes for more than 15 years, and, as a result, my retina has been affected. I have had an operation to replace the lenses and the retina has been treated with a laser. After this operation, blood has gathered in my eye and has almost completely limited my vision. The only treatment available for me is in the military hospital in Riyadh, according to (Part No. 20; Page No. 462) the medical report, of which I have attached a copy. I have lived with my daughter in Khamis Mashit for several years now to complete my course of treatment. I used to live with my husband in the Fifa Mountains, but my husband (may Allah be merciful to him) died on 9/6/1421 A.H., while he was staying with me here at my daughter’s home. I am now in my ‘Iddah (woman’s prescribed waiting period after divorce or widowhood) following my husband’s death, but I want to travel to the military hospital in Riyadh for treatment, because there is no treatment for me in this area. I am suffering from diabetes and thrombosis and I am afraid of complications if I wait until the end of my ‘Iddah.My question is: Is it permissible for me to travel to Riyadh for treatment and surgery while I am in my ‘Iddah?

A: If the situation is as described, there is nothing to prevent you traveling for treatment, as long as you observe the rulings of ‘Iddah for a widow, such as refraining from ornament in clothing, on body, jewelry, and perfumes, and avoiding suitors or concluding a marriage contract until the end of the time that has been decreed. If you travel, you should stay inside the house you will move to or the hospital where you will receive treatment, until the ‘Iddah comes to an end. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.