A Bridgeport teen who's battling brain cancer is not letting the disease get in the way of her dreams.

Carolyn Smith, a 19-year-old graduate of Bassick High School, says she's had 14 surgeries and spent months in the hospital, but that's not stopping her from going to college and starting a foundation to help other people fighting cancer. 

Smith says "Carolyn's Way" will raise money to help people facing a wide range of challenges, from cancer to homelessness and physical disabilities. She says her mother always taught her that you can't let life get you down.

Smith, who loves to sing, says one of the high points of her life was performing with a group of singers at the White House for Michelle Obama. 

She is studying childhood education at Housatonic Community College and hopes to become a music teacher.

Carolyn's Way can be reached at 203-572-7935.