Summary: During “Climbing Kilimanjaro,” Ninth Circuit Judge Mark Blechman shares his adventurous journey to the top of the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. The seven-day climb, which was physically taxing and at times treacherous, culminates in an exhilarating and emotionally charged moment as Judge Blechman displays a “cancer sucks” flag at the summit. Judge Blechman set out to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to raise contributions for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in their ongoing race to find a cure for the disease. His fellow colleague and dear friend Judge Bob Wattles lost his battle against cancer in January of 2010. Judge Mark Blechman spent three decades practicing law before being elected to the Circuit bench in 2012. An avid climber, Judge Blechman has also reached the summits of Mount Rainier, Mount Whitney, Mona Kea, and Mount Hood. He has received numerous awards, including receiving the “Citizen of the Year” award from the Osceola County Veterans Council. Let us know what you think about the podcast.
