Foreword by Dr. William Figlesthaler

When I wrote the foreword for Jay’s first book about his journey with erectile dysfunction, I knew we were addressing a critical need—helping men understand they are not alone in this struggle. However, as I reflected on the countless patients I have treated over the years, I realized we were missing a crucial voice in this conversation: the partners.

Erectile dysfunction does not affect just the man experiencing it. It ripples through relationships, creating waves of confusion, frustration, rejection, and often silent suffering for partners who feel powerless to help the person they love. In my practice, I have seen relationships strain under the weight of unspoken fears, misplaced blame, and the gradual erosion of intimacy that ED can bring.

Partners often become the hidden casualties of this condition.

They may question their attractiveness, wonder if they are somehow at fault, or feel rejected and unloved when physical intimacy becomes complicated or disappears entirely. Many suffer in silence, unsure how to broach the subject or offer support without causing further embarrassment or distress.

This book fills a vital gap in the resources available to those navigating ED as a couple. Jay provides an honest, practical guide that acknowledges the complex emotions and challenges partners face. This book offers strategies for communication, understanding, and maintaining connection during what can be one of the most challenging periods in a relationship.

What makes this book particularly valuable is its dual perspective—combining Jay’s firsthand experience as someone who has successfully overcome ED with insights from the partner’s viewpoint. This comprehensive approach provides couples with tools to not just survive this challenge, but to emerge stronger and more connected.

As healthcare providers, we often focus on the medical aspects of treatment, but healing extends far beyond the physical. Relationships require their own form of medicine—patience, understanding, open communication, and hope.

This book provides that medicine.

To the partners reading this: your feelings are valid, your role is crucial, and your relationship can not only survive this challenge but thrive. You are not powerless in this journey, and you are certainly not alone.

May this book serve as your roadmap to navigating these difficult waters together, and may it remind you that with understanding, patience, and the right resources, love truly can conquer all obstacles.