‘We’re disabled, getting PIP money and present you might be horny – regardless of what trolls say’

Often when you think of a disabled person, your mind might not immediately think of the words ‘sexy’, ‘strong’ nor ’empowered’.

And while this might be the initial assumption of many, one disability activist and journalist is trying to change that by tackling stigmas head on.

Holly Fleet,30, from London, was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis four years ago after a bout of horrific pain and continuous issues with her bowels, leading her to be rushed into hospital.

She was on the “brink of death” as the type of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) took hold of her body, before she underwent stoma surgery – colostomy – and later a proctectomy, where she had her rectum sewn shut.

Now with a diagnosis and her health back in her hands, Holly started to navigate life with a disability. But, she found that there wasn’t much online about living with a stoma (a pouch that essentially collects poo).

Four years on ‘Stoma Babe’, what she is known as online, has a collective 150,000 followers on TikTok and Instagram, where she has built a community of others who have a stoma, IBD or a wide ranging diagnoses and disabilities.

She noticed that people can struggle to feel sexy with a stoma bag, but now she’s on a mission to change that – and the view of others – especially at a time where disabled people are facing the brunt of government cuts.

Holly banded 22 women and non-binary people together to create a video series to show that disabled people are just that, people. And that, regardless of whether you have a stoma, you can still look like a bombshell in a pair of frilly knickers.

Speaking exclusively to Daily Star, Holly said: “There’s a common misconception that people with disabilities can’t be seen as ‘sexy’ or ‘desirable’, and this stigma can weigh heavily on those who face it.

“I have been in a relationship since not too long after my surgery, so I have not been concerned with how men may perceive me.

“However, I am very aware of the societal standards of beauty that ignore or misrepresent individuals with disabilities, leaving them feeling isolated or inadequate.

“I created this video featuring disabled women in lingerie to challenge these narrow definitions by reclaiming our self-worth and challenging unrealistic expectations.

She continued: “This movement celebrates diverse bodies, fosters self-love, and connects with communities that honour all forms of beauty and desirabilities

“Everyone deserves to feel sexy, especially women with disabilities.

“For them, recognising and celebrating their beauty becomes a mighty revolution.

“This journey enables us to reclaim our narrative and enhance our self-acceptance, which is often challenged by a society that frequently overlooks, stereotypes, or marginalises our experiences.”

Here, take a look at those bashing away stigma and embracing sexy self-confidence…