macbook startup problem

Hi everybody

I was on a flight recently. After returning, my macbook would not work. At startup, It shows a folder with a question mark. I had an option of internet recovery, I have been waiting for six days now (4mb connection). The problem is that no other option than internet recovery shows. I understand that the computer is unable to find the operating system. But my only concern is that I am going to lose my files since I do not have a backup. Should I wait for the internet recovery for some more time because 6 days is a long time. And if there are any other options that I can try in order to reinstall the system, that would be greatly appreciated. I tried to buy any version of apple operating systems, in order to use a usb or external HD, but could not find any for sale.

Thanks for your time