With unimaginable sorrow, the family and loved ones of Elina K. “Lina Bina” Perez, age 18, share the heartbreaking news of her sudden passing in Orlando, Florida, due to complications from pulmonary hypertension.
On what should have been the threshold of a long and beautiful life, Elina was called home far too soon, leaving behind cherished memories, deep love, and a void that can never truly be filled.
Born and raised in Orlando, Elina was known affectionately by friends and family as “Lina Bina,” a nickname that captured her playful, joyful spirit. From a young age, she radiated kindness and warmth, drawing people to her with her infectious smile, her gentle presence, and her incredible strength in the face of challenges.
Elina had been courageously living with pulmonary hypertension, a rare and serious condition that she managed with grace far beyond her years. Despite her health struggles, she lived life fully and fearlessly—never allowing her diagnosis to define her.
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Her resilience, positive attitude, and unwavering hope inspired all who knew her. Whether it was through her laughter, her love for music, or the quiet wisdom she shared with those close to her, Elina made an impact wherever she went.
A recent high school graduate, Elina had plans to attend college and pursue a career in healthcare—hoping one day to support others the way so many medical professionals had supported her. She had a passion for helping people, and her family often said she had an “old soul” and a heart far bigger than her small frame could hold.
Elina loved the simple things in life: painting her nails bright colors, journaling, singing along to her favorite songs, spending time with her pets, and taking long car rides with her siblings just to listen to music and talk about everything and nothing. She had a special connection with animals and adored her dog, Luna, who rarely left her side. She also treasured quality time with her parents, who were her fiercest advocates and her biggest supporters, and with her younger cousins, who looked up to her like a big sister.
To those who knew her best, Elina was equal parts fierce and tender. She was witty, compassionate, fiercely loyal, and wise beyond her years. She had the rare ability to comfort others, even when she was struggling herself—a testament to her generous spirit and profound empathy.
The Perez family is devastated by her loss but comforted by the outpouring of love from the community, friends, classmates, and extended family members whose lives were touched by Elina. Her memory lives on in the lives she inspired, the love she gave, and the legacy of strength she leaves behind.
She is survived by her parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many close friends who considered her family. The Perez family has asked for privacy during this incredibly difficult time as they grieve and begin to navigate life without their beloved Lina Bina.
A memorial service and celebration of Elina’s life will be announced in the coming days. In her honor, the family encourages those who knew her to consider supporting organizations that raise awareness and fund research for pulmonary hypertension.
Though her time on Earth was short, Elina K. “Lina Bina” Perez lived a life full of love, meaning, and courage. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a shining light who made the world a better place simply by being in it.
