It is with great fondness and respect that we say goodbye to Joan Axleson, an incredible animal advocate and one of our longest and most beloved supporters. Joan didn’t just speak of her love for animals, she lived it. Joan was one of In Defense of Animals’ most dedicated and fervent supporters and volunteers almost from day one some 30 years ago. She stood beside our friends in their efforts to free animals from abuse and she always supported the efforts of her friends acting on behalf of animals in their campaigns. We and our animal friends owe her so very much. What a tremendous loss to all of us that such a talented and giving person has been lost to us.

A professional harpist in her earlier years, she had the heart and soul of a true musician. Through her volunteer work at In Defense of Animals, she showed nothing but kindness, patience, consideration and compassion to all who were seeking direction, guidance and assistance. She will be sorely missed by all of us and by all who knew her, were assisted by her, and by the animals, in particular the horses she loved so dearly, who she saved from suffering.

Let us take this moment to thank you, our supporters, for your kindness, appreciation and dedication to In Defense of Animals in our ongoing efforts to make the world a more, just, respectful and compassionate place which is so very difficult in these days of such widespread chaos and anger between members of our own species. Despite it all, we are slowly but surely making progress on behalf of our animal brethren; with animal justice, veganism and guardianship growing across the world, thanks to you and our determined staff, and our dedicated volunteers, who are truly working miracles for animals. In memory of Joan and all who have gone before us, on their behalf, and on behalf of all our animal friends, thank you for joining us on our journey toward a better tomorrow for all our fellow beings.