I assume Ill be off work for months... I really haven't a clue what I'm doing yet!!!!!!! 
JD - hi and welcome to the forum.
Feeling shocked and clueless are both pretty normal emotions at this point in your AN journey. Educating yourself will help.
As others have said, surgery is pretty much your only option - but don't freak out. It's not as bad as you are probably imagining. As far as being off of work for months, that usually doesn't happen, but a lot depends on how fast you recover and what kind of work you do. Docs say that recovery generally takes about 6 weeks.
My AN was at least 3 cms when it was removed and I returned to work part-time 2 1/2 weeks post op and full-time at 4 weeks. But that's just my experience; I work a desk job; etc. Your AN journey will be unique to you.
Take a few deep breaths, let your diagnosis sink in - and don't hesitate to ask us anything. That's what we're here for.
Best,
Jan
