Every year, the Fraternal Order of Police No. 75 comes together to celebrate and raise money for a worthy cause. From anti-drug campaigns to police canines and little league teams, the FOP finds a way to give back to the community, and to have fun doing it.

This year marks the sixth annual Policeman’s Ball for FOP in Lawrence County. Organizer Sgt. Pam Wagner of the Ironton Police Department said this year’s proceeds would go toward an especially worthy cause, Josie’s Journey.

Five-year-old Josie Butcher had started kindergarten this year at Dawson-Bryant Elementary. Her first year in school was soon interrupted by an unexpected diagnosis on Sept. 29 of a very rare form of cancer, rhabdomyosarcoma.

“It felt like our world was crashing down on us,” said Brittany Snead-Butcher, Josie’s mother.

Snead-Butcher said that Josie is one of only 15 children in the United States to be diagnosed with this type of Rhabdo this year.

Wagner said when she heard of Josie’s story, she thought the Policeman’s Ball would be the perfect way to help Josie and her family.

“This cause is a really worthy cause,” Wagner said. “This family’s got a full plate right now.”

Josie and her mother, along with her 4-year-old brother Joseph and newborn baby sister Joselin, won’t be able to attend the ball on Dec. 11 because they are all in Columbus at OSU Medical Center. Josie began radiation treatment on Nov. 4 and will continue to have the treatments five days a week until Dec. 13. She also undergoes chemotherapy every Tuesday, and would continue with that for a year.

Snead-Butcher said that Josie is still the same little girl who loves to dance and twirl and is still full of spunk and laughter.

“She’s in great spirits,” she said. “Children as so amazingly resilient. She amazes me daily.”

Ms. Snead-Butcher also said that with the birth of her new baby, Josie has had other things to keep her mind occupied.

“It gives her something to take her mind off treatment,” she said. “Josie is the best big sister in the world. That’s what her brother says.”

Snead-Butcher said she is overwhelmed and humbled by the outpouring and support of the community.

“It’s amazing to feel so supported and for everyone to come together for Josie and our family.”

The Policeman’s Ball will be held at the Knights of Columbus on Dec. 11. Dinner and happy hour will be from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and catered by Joy Coffman. Southern Thunder will also perform from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. The dress is semi-formal.

Tickets for the event are $40 for couples and $25 for single tickets.

Wagner said that ticket could be purchased from any FOP member or at the Knights of the Columbus.

You can also follow Josie and her progress at Josie’s Journey Facebook page or josies-journey.blogspot.com.