Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around the personal experiences and challenges faced by individuals who have undergone bladder and prostate removal, which often results in the inability to have erections. The original poster, Jim, shares his journey of coming to terms with these changes and finding happiness and love despite the physical limitations imposed by the surgery. He emphasizes the importance of perspective and adapting to new realities in life, highlighting his fulfilling relationship with his wife and family post-surgery.

Advice and Insights from Replies:
1. Acceptance and Perspective:
- Several participants echo the sentiment that life changes such as loss of sexual function are not the end of the world if one doesn't allow them to be. Emphasizing acceptance and focusing on other aspects of life can lead to happiness.
- Age plays a significant role in how individuals cope with the loss of sexual function, with older individuals often finding it easier to accept and adapt due to changing priorities.

2. Challenges of Dating and Relationships:
- Some individuals face significant challenges in dating and maintaining relationships post-surgery, particularly when it comes to discussing their physical limitations. The reactions can vary widely, with some potential partners being understanding, while others may not be willing to continue the relationship.
- Honesty and openness about one's condition are crucial in forming new relationships, though it can lead to rejection, which can be disheartening.

3. Alternative Sexual Methods and Aids:
- Participants discuss various methods and aids that can help maintain a sexual relationship despite erectile dysfunction. These include penile implants, penile vacuum pumps, and exploring other forms of intimacy that do not rely on traditional methods of sexual intercourse.
- The importance of creativity and exploring non-penetrative forms of sexual activity is highlighted, emphasizing that intimacy can be maintained in many ways.

4. Support and Understanding from Partners:
- Stories shared by participants highlight that supportive partners can significantly impact the adjustment to life post-surgery. The depth of the relationship and emotional connection often compensates for the lack of traditional sexual intercourse.
- Some participants mention successful relationships and marriages where partners have adapted to the changes together, focusing on other forms of intimacy and companionship.

5. Medical Consultation and Options:
- Discussions about nerve-sparing surgeries and consultations with medical professionals before undergoing procedures suggest that there are surgical options that might preserve erectile function, depending on individual cases.
- It's important for patients to discuss