Meet The Bottom Line Movement Founder
A Message From Heather
I never thought I’d be talking about my butt on the internet.
But I also never thought colorectal cancer would touch my life the way it did.
Like a lot of people, I assumed this was something that happened to older people. I didn’t think much about the symptoms. I didn’t think this was something I needed to worry about yet. And honestly — I didn’t want to talk about it. It felt awkward. Uncomfortable. Easy to ignore.
That silence almost cost me everything.
Colorectal cancer doesn’t care how old you are.
It doesn’t care if you’re busy, healthy, or “too young.”
And it definitely doesn’t care if the conversation feels embarrassing.
That’s why I created Bottom Line.
Not to scare people — but to wake them up.
To normalize the conversations we avoid.
To remind you to listen to your body, ask questions, and advocate for yourself.
The bottom line?
Talking about your butt can save your life.
If this post makes you uncomfortable, I get it. I was uncomfortable too.
But I’d rather be uncomfortable than silent.
If you’re reading this — please don’t ignore the signs.
Please talk to your doctor.
Please talk to each other.
This matters.
You matter.
🤍
Early Detection
It can save your life.
Change in Stool
Bright red blood often comes from the lower colon or rectum, while very dark or black stool can signal bleeding higher in the digestive tract. Ongoing or unexplained bleeding should always be checked, even if you think it’s hemorrhoids.
Fatigue + Weakness
Chronic tiredness may be caused by anemia from slow internal bleeding in the colon. If rest doesn’t help and fatigue persists, it’s important to investigate the cause.
Rectal Pain + Pressure
A feeling of fulness or discomfort in the rectum.
Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
Ongoing discomfort that doesn’t improve may be caused by inflammation or a blockage in the colon. Pain that is new, frequent, or worsening deserves medical attention.
Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying can happen when the body isn’t absorbing nutrients properly or is using extra energy to fight illness. Sudden or ongoing weight loss should never be ignored.
Change in Bathroom Habits
This sensation, called rectal pressure or incomplete emptying, can occur if something is obstructing the rectum. It’s especially concerning if it happens regularly.
Our Mission
Arielle Karaj Photography