Support Axiom's Training for a Veteran's Future

From Freyr’s Legacy to Axiom’s Mission: Support a Veteran’s Next Chapter

About Me

My name is Joseph Funk, and I’m a combat veteran injured in the line of duty. For nearly seven years, my devoted service dog Freyr has been by my side, guiding and supporting me through countless challenges. Freyr is a mobility and stability assistance dog, trained to help me navigate the physical limitations caused by my injuries—providing balance, bracing support, and confidence in movement.

Freyr’s companionship not only made daily life possible but brought joy and hope during my most difficult days. Unfortunately, his job is physically demanding, and now, due to age and years of devoted service, he suffers from arthritis and back problems. It’s time for him to retire and rest.

As difficult as it is to see him step away, a new chapter has begun. His successor, a promising young dog named Axiom, is already on the path to becoming my next support partner.

My Academic Journey

After leaving military service, I found purpose and healing in philosophy. The study of ideas, ethics, and the nature of being has offered me a path forward—one grounded in reflection and discovery. Freyr has been instrumental in this journey. His presence and assistance made it possible for me to pursue and complete my undergraduate degree in philosophy.

As I now look toward graduate school, I do so with a deep sense of purpose and hope. Axiom will take on the torch, enabling me to continue my education with stability and safety. This pursuit of wisdom is more than just academic—it's a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of support, both human and canine.

Why We’re Fundraising

The total cost to train and place Axiom as my service dog is about $20,000. This figure reflects the real and necessary expenses involved—specialized training, veterinary care, professional handler time, and ongoing support.

Axiom, like Freyr, is being trained to provide advanced mobility and stability assistance. This kind of training is highly specialized and intensive. He’ll learn how to support my balance while walking, help me recover from stumbles or falls, and retrieve essential items—all while staying attentive to my physical condition.

Axiom's training has already begun Thanks to the generosity of K9 Battalion, a nonprofit dedicated to pairing service dogs with combat veterans. They have graciously promised to cover any amount we are unable to raise, ensuring that Axiom’s training will be completed no matter what.

However, every dollar we receive through this fundraiser directly reduces the financial burden on K9 Battalion, helping them support more veterans like me. Your donation not only helps with Axiom’s training, but it also helps the charity allocate funds to other dogs and families on their waiting list.

Additionally, Freyr's care as he ages will steadily increase. A small portion of the funds will be used to pay for better care for him as he gets older. Injections and medications are expensive, but can potentially limit his pain.

The Impact of Your Support

Your support makes a real, measurable difference. It enables Axiom to continue developing the skills he needs to keep me safe, grounded, and independent. From retrieving dropped items, to bracing during mobility tasks, to simply being there when I need him most—Axiom’s training will touch every part of my daily life.

Your support goes further still—it helps me continue my academic journey. With Axiom by my side, I can attend classes, teach, research, and write—all the work required to earn an advanced degree in philosophy. Your gift becomes part of a larger story: a story of transition, healing, and higher learning.

Every dollar you contribute helps K9 Battalion continue its life-changing mission. You’re not just helping me—you’re empowering them to help more people who need this kind of support.

Axiom’s Journey

Axiom has already started training, and he’s showing tremendous potential. I’ll be sharing regular updates throughout this journey—photos, videos, and milestones as Axiom learns and grows. You’ll see firsthand how your contribution changes both our lives.

Honoring the Charity

We also want to take a moment to sincerely thank K9 Battalion. Their commitment to veterans and service dogs is unwavering. Their willingness to step in as a safety net while continuing to train Axiom is an incredible act of compassion. Supporting this fundraiser means supporting their larger mission, and we are so grateful for that.

How You Can Help

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your kindness carries us forward, whether through donations or simply sharing our story. Every share helps us reach new people, and every gift—no matter the size—makes an impact.

Together, we can honor Freyr’s legacy, empower Axiom’s training, and ensure that my path forward—both as a veteran and as a philosopher—continues with strength and hope.