Parents Remembering Corona Teen Who Died Suddenly During P.E. Class

CORONA (CBSLA.com) — The parents of a Corona teen are remembering their big-hearted daughter who died suddenly during a physical education class.

Lizbeth Perez loved life, played the clarinet, and was known to break into song anytime and anywhere.

"She was a spontaneous girl. She was loud. She loved to sing," said her mother, Erica Perez.

She said her daughter wanted three things in life: to travel, rescue dogs, and help homeless veterans, goals that she says capture how deeply Lizbeth cared for the world and all living things.

"She was always making peace and loving each other and making sure that people was OK," her mother said.

And at just 13, Lizbeth had already overcome incredible challenges.

As an infant, she was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and had a heart transplant at the age of 2.

But that never slowed her down until last week.

It was then that Lizbeth was playing on the field during P.E. class and collapsed.

Her heart had stopped.

She died almost immediately despite CPR efforts by teachers and paramedics. Her parents say they knew she was ready to go.

"For the last couple of weeks, she wanted to hug mom and say, 'Mom, I want to go home.' And mom say, 'You are home.' And it's the same thing over and over again, not sad, not mad, she want a hug and say, 'Mom, I want to go home,' " Lizbeth's father said.

Lizbeth's parents say they truly believe their little angel is finally home.

A celebration of life is planned for Lizbeth on Saturday at Luiseno Elementary School. An online fundraising page has been established to assist her family with memorial expenses. For more information, click here.