The Straughn High School student battling chronic myelogenous leukemia will have to have a bone marrow transplant.

Gordie Cartwright, son of Rick and Christy Cartwright, was diagnosed in October 2014 with the form of cancer that starts inside the bone marrow and causes uncontrolled growth of immature cells that make a certain type of white blood cells called myeloid cells.

Earlier this week, the Cartwrights found out Gordie would need the transplant.

“We will have to be at MD Anderson in Houston on Monday at 7 a.m., for Gordie’s first appointment with his transplant team,” Christy said. “We aren’t sure what all will be done Monday and we will know more after that.”

Christy said many in the community have asked if they could donate their bone marrow to see if they are a match for Gordie.

“As of right now, they think Ginnee Cartwright (Gordie’s sister) will be his best match, but again, we will know more Monday,” she said.

The Cartwrights have been contacted by Pilots for Christ, but they can’t help on the trip.

“We will be driving to Houston,” she said. “But they are still an option on future trips.”

Christy expressed thanks to the community’s concern.

“Thanks to everyone who is praying, messaging, texting and calling,” she said. “You have no idea how much we appreciate and love each and every one of you.”