Brownsville, TX (KRGV) — Brownsville breast cancer survivor Lisa Cornejo is using her own experience with the disease to help other families through the nonprofit Lucha Against Cancer.

Cornejo learned she had breast cancer in 2017 after she found a lump during a shower. She was 38 and working as a teacher and coach at the time.

“Oh, I was scared. I was scared. I was shocked. I broke down crying,” Cornejo said.

She had surgery to remove her right breast and went through 16 rounds of chemotherapy before she went into remission.

Four years later, on her youngest son’s birthday, she woke up unable to feel her feet and legs. She said she could not get out of bed.

“I told my husband, take care of the kids. Don’t let them worry about me. Let my mom take me to the ER,” Cornejo said.

Cornejo said testing showed the breast cancer had returned and spread through her lymphatic system and into her bones. Five years later, she says she is now in remission.

Running and exercise give her an outlet. Her family and faith give her support. She says her cancer journey gave her a new purpose and pushed her to help others.

Through Lucha Against Cancer, she works to connect families with gas for chemotherapy appointments, food, cleaning and emotional support.

Cornejo's message to other patients: ask questions, speak up about your needs, and let someone help.

“We have to have that belief that it’s not going to overcome us. We’re going to overcome it,” Cornejo said.

Watch the video above for the full story.