Woman with Crohns disease becomes internet sensation

Bethany Townsend's photo has been viewed by more than nine million people Credit: Bethany Townsend

A 23-year-old woman from Worcester who has Crohns disease has become an internet sensation after posing in a bikini, exposing her colostomy bags.

Bethany Townsend's photo has been viewed by more than nine million people, and she has received more than 190,000 'likes' on Facebook.

She told ITV News:

Crohn’s disease is a condition that causes inflammation of the digestive system, affecting the ability to digest food, absorb nutrients and eliminate waste.

In 2010 Bethany almost died when her bowel ruptured. Since then she has been fitted with two colostomy bags and undergone a stem cell transplant after contracting MRSA.

Bethany decided she wanted to raise awareness of Crohns disease, so she got in touch with Crohn’s and Colitis UK Facebook group to see if they would let her post something on their page.

Bethany is pursuing a career as model. Credit: Bethany Townsend

Bethany said the positive reaction online has given her the confidence to pursue her career as a model - something she initially gave up on when she was fitted with the colostomy bags.