A TEENAGER who has spent almost half her life caring for her mum is seeking help from the community as she aims to keep her place at a prestigious football academy.

Sophie Harris, 17, from North Leigh, has completed her first year at the Arsenal Women Youth Academy.

Before leaving last September, she had spent seven years caring for her mum Hannah, who has hypersensitivity pneumonitis and hemophagocytic lymphoistiocytosis (HLH).

In order to remain at the academy – where she gets accommodation, meals and her education – Sophie needs financial support, with her mum even looking to sell her car.

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Sophie, who is hoping to stay for the second and final year, said: “This will be my last year at Oaklands and will be the deciding year with regards to hopefully getting a professional contract with a good WSL [Women’s Super League] team.

“We are trying to raise money for the residential cost as without it, I can’t attend college.

“If we can’t raise the funding then I will have no option but to have to leave Arsenal and lose everything I’ve worked so hard for.

“I have already had to turn down an offer for a US scholarship as the costs would be too high so I’m very anxious that I will now lose this as well.

“My mum has done so much for me and has gone without to help me afford everything else, but the accommodation cost is too much for her.

“I know how much she hates having to do this but I want people to know this is the only route we have left and if anyone could help we would be so grateful.”

Oxford Mail: Hannah Harris with her daughter Sophie. Picture supplied by familyHannah Harris with her daughter Sophie. Picture supplied by family

Sophie said her coaches have earmarked this year as of utmost importance in her development.

She said: “My first year at Oaklands went really well and I loved every second of it.

“I have already learnt so much and love playing football every day.

“My coaches have said they have seen a big improvement in my football and are looking forward to seeing what I can do in the future.

“I myself have also noticed a massive difference in the way I play, I love the high standard environment and I feel like that has played a massive part in my development as a player.

“The main Arsenal coach has said he sees this coming season and college year as being the most pivotal year in my life so far and that he is so impressed with what he’s seen with how far I have come in a year.

“I have made so many new friends and memories, and hopefully I can make many more.”

To donate, please visit: gofundme.com/f/please-help-sophie-finish-college-with-arsenal