A Life of Resilience: Judge Ronald Gould’s Unyielding Spirit in the Face of Adversity

Judge Ronald Gould is a study in contrasts – a federal judge presiding over high-stakes cases while struggling with progressive multiple sclerosis. His life has been marked by both remarkable achievements and unrelenting adversity, yet he remains steadfast in his approach: “Just take life a step at a time.” This phrase encapsulates not only his outlook on life but also the indomitable will that has defined him.

Gould’s journey is one of quietly overcoming obstacles. He initially hid his diagnosis from colleagues while building a successful career as a lawyer and later rose through the ranks, including being nominated by President Bill Clinton and confirmed by the Senate in 1999. As a judge on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, he has made several landmark decisions advancing rights for marginalized groups.

The impact of Gould’s story extends beyond his own experiences. Karla Gilbride, a public interest lawyer who is blind, credits him as a role model: “Having him as a mentor helped me picture that all sorts of things are possible.” His fellow judges and peers admire not only his judicial acumen but also his unwavering commitment to justice.

Gould’s decisions have often addressed critical issues in the contemporary legal landscape. In 2008, he wrote the opinion in Witt v. Department of the Air Force, which helped secure rights for LGBTQ+ individuals in the military years before the repeal of “Don’t ask, don’t tell.” His role as a member of the panel that struck down the Trump administration’s travel ban from Muslim-majority countries highlights his commitment to upholding constitutional principles.

What is most remarkable about Judge Gould’s story, however, is not merely his achievements but also how he approaches adversity. Despite relying on round-the-clock caregivers and presiding over cases remotely due to mobility loss, he has chosen not to seek “senior status” or a reduced workload. This decision reflects his deep sense of responsibility and commitment to justice.

Gould’s determination serves as a beacon of hope in an era where there are growing concerns about the judiciary’s accessibility for individuals with disabilities. His story challenges us to rethink how we approach adversity – not just for those in positions of power but also for society at large.

Judge Gould’s unyielding spirit offers a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, optimism, determination, and empathy can lead to extraordinary outcomes.