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The 41-year-old Newark mother of three had just been promoted to chef manager at Sodexo, a moment she and her husband, who had also been promoted to executive chef, had been working toward for years, according to a GoFundMe started by Alecia Hemler.
Then, in February 2024 in a cruel twist of fate, a routine mammogram changed everything.
Doctors delivered the devastating news: Stage 4 aggressive breast cancer, the GoFundMe states.
Karina endured radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, battling through a summer of pain and uncertainty, the GoFundMe states. And by October, in a moment that should have marked her victory, she returned to work, eager to pick up where she left off, according to GoFundMe.
"Her entire work family welcomed her back as we celebrated her remission, and her customers looked forward to her delicious meals, made with love, creativity, and just enough spice… just like her," the GoFundMe states.
But cancer doesn’t play fair.
Just one month later, Karina suffered a sudden seizure. The cancer had spread to her brain and lungs, the GoFundMe states.
She wasn’t done fighting.
Karina underwent two brain surgeries, another round of radiation and chemotherapy, refusing to let go, according to GoFundMe.
But last month, after nearly a year of battle, her body could take no more. On Feb. 19, surrounded by loved ones, Karina took her final breath, her obituary on the Parow Funeral Home website states.
Born in Quito, Ecuador, Karina was just 14 years old when her father brought her to New York in search of a better future, the Parow Funeral Home obituary states.
Karina built a life in New Jersey with her husband, Jose M. Bilbao, and raised their three children, Emely, Mia, and Miguel Jr., her obit says. Her love for cooking turned into a successful career, and she poured her heart into every dish, according to her obituary.
"Karina was the heart of the home," her obituary continues, "always there to support and guide her children with unconditional love, care and patience. She made sure they felt deeply loved every single day."
Karina’s passing shattered her family, leaving them not only with grief but financial uncertainty, the GoFundMe states. The campaign aims to raise $25,000 to cover funeral expenses and give her the farewell she deserves, the GoFundMe states.
In addition to her husband, children, and parents, Karina is survived by her siblings, Paulina, Raul, Alejandra, and Cisne, the Parow Funeral Home obituary states. Funeral services were held in February.
Donations can be made through GoFundMe here.
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