"I am inspired by people like yourself. I think there are a lot of people who go through a lot of struggling situations, and despite what the doctors have said and the cancer you're going through, how do you stay so positive?" Ellen DeGeneres asked on her show.

"When people ask me that, what do you want me to do, be depressed? I mean a little fishy told me, 'Just keep swimming, just keep swimming!'" Talia responded, referring to Ellen's character Dory in Finding Nemo.

After Talia's tragic death, CoverGirl issued a statement. "We are honored to have known Talia and grateful for all the ways she showed us what true beauty means," the company said. "She inspired millions with her strength, personality and talent. Talia has touched our CoverGirl family forever, and we're thankful to have been a part of her life. Our hearts go out to her family and friends during this difficult time."