Looking for help with multilevel degenerative disc disease

I have just been told today 9/16/08 that I have Multilevel degenerative disc at the C5-6 level where there is a broad prominet disc osteohhyte complex eccentric to the right as well as retrolisthesis. There is resultant indentation upon the spinal cord, mild central canal stenosis, and significant right neural foraminal narrowing. I was alos told that amall disc osteohhyte complex eccentric to the left st the C3-4 level with left neural foraminal narrowing. If any one can but this in a way that I can understand it I would so much be greatful. I am a 45 year old female and I am really scared to death about this. So any advise would be appreciated. The doctor has told me that it is so far along that the surgery is really my only option at this point and I have no clue on what to expect. So please if anyone can give me any advise I sure do need it. Thank you.