DEMING – This past Saturday, September 26th, Luna County hosted its 1st Annual Buddy Walk organized by Beatrice Armendariz. The Buddy Walk is an awareness event for Down Syndrome and this year’s guest of honor was Mateo “Tank” Armendariz. Tank has a rare form of Down Syndrome, T21, and the event was appropriately titled “Tank’s T21’s Buddy Walk”.
The event kicked off with a speech from Bea, his mother, detailing their journey from diagnosis to now. She recounted the heart wrenching time when she was unable to hold her baby whenever she wanted and his long hospital stay, something many other parents could resonate with. She spoke of the special medical staff who helped her through that time and the support of her family. Now Tank is a bright and vibrant toddler who loves to dance, be held, and has touched so many hearts.
Her speech was followed by words from Jenifer Jones, New Mexico House District 32 Representative, about her time in healthcare as a nurse. One of the things she said that really stood out was “Oftentimes the diagnosis of Down-Syndrome is delivered almost as an apology- something we need to change”. She recounted her time with past patients she is still in contact with and the incredible families who raise these incredible humans.
Before the walk kicked off Mark Shultz of Peppers Supermarket led a prayer. Multiple other community figures attended this event and showed their support. Glen Chadborn, Candidate for Luna County Sheriff, and Israel Valdez, Candidate for Luna County Undersheriff, attended dressed as Woody and Buzz from Toy Story and were a big hit with the kids. Vicki Galindo of Silver City, who organized a Buddy Walk in Grant County, was also in attendance. Support came from all over with many organizations, volunteers, and sponsors also donating time, money, and showing up in full support for this year’s first annual Buddy Walk.
Twelve other individuals with Down Syndrome and their families joined Tank on the walk along with 281 registered walkers. Deming Pride’s King and Queen presented a medal to every individual with Down Syndrome as they walked or ran through the finish line ribbon, which was reset for each individual. Youth Groups from Bell Elementary, Red Mountain Middle School, and the Early College also attended and offered their support. Bravo Security provided security for walkers from Deming, Columbus, Silver City, Lordsburg, Albuquerque, Arizona, Las Cruces, Santa Teresa, and El Paso.
While at the walk vendors grilled burgers, made snowcones and special drinks. A bouncy castle was set up for the younger children to play in and families enjoyed the beautiful setting at Voiers Park. It was a beautiful day and an event filled with inclusion, love, and positivity. Be sure to keep an eye out for next year’s registration and sign up early!
Here are a few comments from participants:
“It was wonderful! A big success. And of course, we were honored to be a part of it.” – Jenifer Jones
“I appreciated the opportunity this event gave those of us to support our loved ones with Down Syndrome. The event showed that acceptance & inclusivity is so very important for us. This really made an impact on how we all belong. It was an awesome opportunity for the general community of Deming & Luna County to learn more about Down Syndrome.” – Kristin F., walking for Elijah
“The event was well organized and the participants were enthusiastic and sincere. Right to Life of Luna County members were so happy to have played a small part in this happy occasion.” – Pat S, Right to Life of Luna County
“Community feedback:
On Saturday September 26, 2026 I experienced the most incredible opportunity to attend Tank T21 supporting Down Syndrome for all the community in Deming NM. Mateo Armendariz is the son of Beatrice Armendariz and truly loved by many. Beatrice did such an amazing job with this special event she is truly blessed from above. She is definitely a servant to God.
During this event, there were vendors and supporters in which I truly love them all. Deming Pride surely showed up and gave ALL their support. This is what living in a community that is united does. Quote : A life not truly lived is NOT a life…(Mother Teresa) We need to remember to continue to support others on their life journey and help out as much as we can….God loves us all….Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.””Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.”If you judge people, you have no time to love them.” “The hunger for love is much more difficult to remove than the hunger for bread.”.
So let us remember our purpose and blessings to wake up every morning to LOVE and support those in need. None of us humans are perfect. Ending this message with a big shout shout out to all those who attended Tank T21sSaturday. It was heart felt and soul searching for those with Down Syndrome. Each and everyone of them were just beautifully made from above. May God continue to bless them all.” -Yvette M., walker/volunteer
Sponsors: Jimenez Autoglass, Jimenez Farm Labor, Jimenez Tax Preparation, Hudson Shops, DJ Nono, K-Cross Photo, Glenn Chadborn, RMT, Kendra and Jeff Osborne, Fast Freddie’s, Daniela Jimenez, Luna Yoga Studio, Larry’s Pawn Shop, Jamison’s Affordable Auto, Gunther, Denny’s, Mimbres Internal Medicine, Janet Renn-Nelson, EagleDove Physical Therapy, & SW Mastercrafts.
By:Kylee Creasy – Bravo Mic Communications, LLC – kylee@bravomic.com
