Safely back from the death zone!

Dr. John Klein and Trekker Guide Deepak with Mt. Everest behind them.

Dr. John Klein and Trekker Guide Deepak with Mt. Everest behind them.

Jean Tittle

The 2019-20 Kino Lecture Series will open on Monday, Nov. 18, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Quail Creek Madera Clubhouse Ballroom.

Please join us as we welcome back Dr. John Klein, Tucson orthopedic surgeon, and conqueror of six out of the world’s seven tallest summits. Last November, Dr. Klein shared with our audience his May 2017 climb to the top of Mt. Everest when he joined an elite group of approximately 4,000 successful climbers since Sir Edmund Hillary first conquered Everest in 1953. While reaching the top of the world’s tallest peak along with his sherpa, Dr. Klein was unable to enjoy the view because he was suffering from corneal edema (frozen corneas). Fortunately, he recovered his sight after his descent from the summit.

His passion for climbing resulted in a decision to return to Everest in May 2019. Unfortunately, the spring window for safe ascents turned out to be one of the most crowded and therefore dangerous climbing seasons. Eleven climbers lost their lives this past May, many in their descent from the summit. Out of respect for those climbers and the families they left behind, Dr. Klein will briefly address this past season while focusing mainly on climbing safety and his 2017 Everest ascent. He will also share photographs of the seven continental summits – six of which he has conquered. His three attempts at Denali were “weathered” out.

Dr. Klein states, “No mountain is worth my life or limbs.” We are grateful that he is safely back from Everest’s death zone and willing to share with us his climbing expertise and passion.

The Kino Lecture Series is sponsored by The Women of Quail Creek’s (TWOQC) Scholarship Committee. All profits from the lecture series are contributed to the Scholarship Fund that annually awards scholarships to women in transition and senior girls at the two Sahuarita high schools. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the Madera Clubhouse concierge desk (checks only) or on the night of the lecture (cash or check). This lecture is open to the public.