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.
Former Chief Judge and Moderator
Judge Fred Lauten served in the Ninth Circuit from 1994 to 2019. Between 2015 and 2019, he served as Chief Judge of the Circuit.
Circuit Court Judge
Judge Blechman has served as a Circuit Judge since 2013. He currently serves in the Criminal Division in Orange County.