Local boxer-turned-volunteer urges people with mental-health struggles to persevere

At the start of the public comment period, Pedro Serra told the court he began fighting at age 12 and later returned to the ring despite losing an eye and long periods away from competition. Serra said he trained for 34 years and recently returned to competition, and that his experience informed his broader community work: he said he has opened a gym in Socorro to help at‑risk youth.

“I'm proud to say I'm a person with a mental health,” Serra said in court, urging people with disabilities and mental‑health challenges to keep trying. Judge Samaniego thanked Serra and commissioners offered praise for his community work and resilience. The court’s acknowledgement was informal; no formal action was taken in response to the comment.