Talia Joy Castellano has died on July 16, Tuesday, at the age of 13. The inspirational teen, who has fought cancer with much positivity and hope for the past six years, has lost her battle to the disease.
Talia or taliajoy18 became an Internet sensation after posting a series of hair and make-up tutorial videos on Youtube. Many were inspired by her sheer strength and vigor amidst battling two types of aggressive cancer: neuroblastoma and preleukemia. She even used an image of her with "Makeup Is My Wig" written all over her bald head as the primary image of her Youtube Channel.
The teen's outlook made her an instant hit online and a true model to young ones battling with other diseases.
"YouTube, and all the support that I get from everyone telling me that I'm inspiring and not to give up, it really makes you stop and think about how many people there are that love you... You're not there alone," Talia said in an interview with Shira Lazar on Huffington Post.
However, her long battle with cancer ended on Tuesday, when the 13-year-old "earned her wings," as posted on Talia's Facebook Page.
#prayfortalia It is with a heavy heart that we share with all of you that Talia has earned her wings at 11:22am. Please lift her beautiful soul, her beautiful light to heaven and please send your love and prayers to her family during this most difficult time. God speed little one, may you be free from pain and suffering, may your soul feel the light and love that you brought to so many of us on this Earth during the short time you were her with us. We will miss you more than you will ever know baby girl.
An outpour from her supporters was received on the social networking site, as well as on Twitter. As of this writing, the Facebook announcement has already received more than 200,000 likes and over 53,000 comments of support and condolences.
Ellen DeGeneres also took to Twitter to extend her condolences to the family.
"This year I met a very special girl, and today we lost her. Sending my heart to Talia's family. I'm so sad," DeGeneres tweeted on Tuesday.
In September of last year, the talk show host made one of Talia's dreams come true by inviting the Youtube star over to her show and announced the she was chosen as an honorary CoverGirl model.
CoverGirl also sent their heartfelt tribute to the cancer fighter.
"Talia Castellano was the meaning of a true COVERGIRL. Please join me in sending love and honoring her memory," the brand posted on their Twitter account.
Since being known for her make-up videos and her courage and strength, Talia has become an inspiration to many, and she will continue to become a model for others.
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