STUCK IN LOOP

apparently my account "was compromised" so they locked me out. I sign in using my password and they want to verify with a text - i do not have this phone number anymore. So I use the recovery page - I have had this email for 16 years. I type all my answers to the best of my knowledge. Get denied. I've tired 3 times. Denied both times. 3rd time - no response - its been 5 days. I try calling Microsoft - the customer service is HORRIBLE just a machine telling you to use the website for help. I need that email but Microsoft does not care for its customers apparently. Lock me out for no reason then dont let me back in my account because I no longer have the same number from 5 years ago? Or because I can't remember my "favorite teacher" from when I was 13? This is ridiculous. Any help would be great.