Hi Lisa. I did see this earlier, but was on my phone and wanted to reply when I could give my full attention.
I feel so sad for you, I really do. As Ummmm mentioned, my younger sister has recently been diagnosed with cervical cancer, so I can sort of relate to how you must be feeling.
As you say, it's the worst bloody time to try and get anything done quickly, what with the holidays. Rest assured though, they won't let you wait, just because it's Christmas. You're in the best possible hands now.
I've done quite a lot of research into Cervical cancer, and it's one of the easiest cancers to treat. So, try and stay positive... which I know is easier said than done :-(
The "good" thing about cervical cancer, is that they can literally just remove everything. I know that sounds really blunt and drastic, but think of it as a plus. You have two children already, so you are blessed in many ways. My sister hasn't been so lucky.
I'm not trying to compare, far from it, I'm just trying to make you realise that you're actually very fortunate already... it's those little things that will keep you going and will keep you strong.
First things first, you need to see what stage your cancer is at. My eldest sister actually had an abnormal smear, a couple of years ago, and it was fully treated with a small operation. It was literally zapped away. She was in and out in a day.
What I'm trying to say, is don't let your emotions run away just yet, as you don't know where you stand or what's next.
I was going to recommend a website called Jo's trust, but Chris has already suggested that to you.
That's the one my sister was told to look at, as you can chat to other women who are going through the same thing as you.. which always makes things a lot easier, talking to people who can fully understand what you're feeling.
Surround yourself with friends and family. Don't suffer in silence.
My sister was a complete mess for the first couple of weeks, and just cried and cried. It was absolutely heartbreaking, but she's now very strong, and positive that she'll beat this! She's had her op, and she starts chemo and radiotherapy in a couple of weeks time, but she's remarkably upbeat.
Come on here to talk, it really does help. There's always someone around, no matter what time... although if it's a random hour, you're likely to get someone who's intoxicated and may not make much sense. They'll be such to make you laugh though! :))
There's loads more I want to say, but I think it's important to wait until you know where you stand with it all, first.
On another note, it's really important that you eat well. I know it's Christmas, but try and eat as much raw fruit and vegetables as possible. Obviously it won't get rid of what you've got, but it's vital to good health. Unprocessed and uncooked foods are best... things like fresh fruits and vegetables, seeds, sprouts, grains, nuts, beans, and seaweed are all really, really good for you and will help you with your fight against cancer.
I'm happy to give you an email address, if you want to chat some more. I've done tons of research over the past few weeks and, as I said, I can kind of relate to what you're going through.
I don't think anyone truly knows the effect this has on someone, unless you've been there yourself. I can't offer you any personal experience, but I can offer you some good second-hand experience, and a friendly shoulder to cry on :-)
I wish you all the best, I really do. My thoughts are with you. xx