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By Sally KalosOn September 4, 2025, Ruth M. Gonzales marks eight years as Executive Director of WINGS—a 100% privately funded 501(c)(3) dedicated to providing no-cost, comprehensive breast cancer care to uninsured women living at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines and ineligible for government assistance.Founded in 1999, WINGS bridges the gap between breast cancer detection and life-saving treatment, covering everything from chemotherapy and radiation to transportation, prosthetics, and education. The organization has achieved a 95% survival rate among participants—14% higher than the national average—and has provided care to more than 20,000 women.Ruth’s connection to WINGS began in 2017 when a friend suggested she apply for the Executive Director position. A breast cancer survivor herself, Ruth felt it was more than a job—it was a calling. After prayer and reflection, she accepted, committing herself fully to the mission.What sets WINGS apart is its status as the only non-profit in the region offering comprehensive, no-cost breast cancer care to uninsured women who qualify.Ruth M. Gonzales, Executive Director of WINGS.Long-standing partnerships with medical providers ensure that every patient—no matter the stage of her diagnosis—receives world-class treatment, medications, and supportive services.The organization’s roots trace back to founder Terri B. Jones, who, after her own mastectomy, met a woman unable to afford follow-up treatment. Terri and her oncologist, Dr. Katherine L. Safford, secured support from Methodist Healthcare Ministries, creating WINGS to ensure no woman faced such a choice again.Beyond treatment, WINGS provides translation services, transportation, educational workshops, and emotionalPost pic with patients after a monthly Wings for Life Survivorship Program workshop designed to educate participants regarding heart health and the impacts of pre- and post-chemo/ radiation treatments supporting overall wellness.FBy Caitlin Ogletree, MS, RDiber is a powerhouse nutrient,especially when it comes tomaintaining a healthy gut- a crucial element of long term health. Fiber plays a pivotal role in digestive health, helping to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.Additionally, it’s linked to a reduction in inflammation and supports a balanced gut microbiome.A diet rich in fiber can also contribute to improved immune function, lower cholesterol levels, and better blood sugarSTONE OAK HANDYMAN INC Home Repair & Property Maintenanceregulation. Since fiber is not digested by the body, it passes through the digestive tract and acts as food for healthy gut bacteria. Here are 5 fiber-rich foods to include in your diet for a healthier gut:1. Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans)- legumes are great for digestion and help stabilize blood sugar levels. Just one cup of cooked lentils contains about 15 grams of fiber.2. Avocados- a delicious source of both fiber and healthy fats. They contain about 10 grams of fiber per half fruit, making them an excellent addition to any meal.3. Chia Seeds- These tiny seeds are rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Just 2 tablespoons provide 10 grams of fiber.4. Whole Grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice)- Try swapping refined grains (like pasta) for whole grains to boost your fiber intake.5. Berries (raspberries, blackberries, strawberries)- these are not only rich in fiber but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.If you are looking to improve your digestion and boost gut health, incorporating these fiber-rich foods intoyour daily diet is an easy and effective way.WINGS ~ Bridges The Gap Between Breast Cancer Detection & Life-Saving Treatments To Uninsuredsupport—offering dignity and hope alongside medical care. As Ruth notes, “When a woman survives breast cancer, the impact ripples across generations.”This year marks WINGS’25th anniversary. Their Silver WINGS Celebration will be held December 11, 2025, at the historic San Antonio Women’s Club Mansion to honor the women served, the partners involved, and the mission that saves lives.But challenges remain. The metastatic breast cancer population is at an all-time high, with more than 75 women currentlyon the waitlist. Rising treatment costs and the intensive work of guiding each patient’s journey make community support more critical than ever.“If you have a passion for life, we invite you to join us,” Ruth says. “Your talents, treasures, and time can ensure no woman faces breast cancer alone.”Every dollar counts. Every life matters.Texas WINGS www.texaswings.orgFB: texaswings | IG: texaswingssaFiber: The Often Overlooked Nutrition SuperheroLic.# B30931701San Antonio’s ONLY Certified Master Locksmith & Certified Professional Safe Tech• Over 43 years experience• Residential and Commercial Installs • Repairs • RekeyingRealtors & Property Managers WelcomeProfessional ServiceAffordable Rates / Military DiscountsWilliam Young CML, CPSCallToday! 610-476-4734 youngcml@yahoo.com“ Like A Good Neighbor, State Farm Is There”Serving Stone Oak & Surrounding AreasAuto • Life • Homeowners Health • Renters • Business Se Habla EspañolChris Gann State Farm Insurance(210) 656-1450Mon. - Fri. 9am - 5pm20079 Stone Oak Parkway Suite 1106San Antonio, TX 78258 www.chrisganntheinsuranceman.com• Small Interior Painting Jobs• Finish Carpentry • Installation• Assembly Services • Minor ElectricalRepairs• Maintenance & MoreFREE ESTIMATES(210) 500-3245Brandon@stoneoakhandyman.com FULLY INSURED www.stoneoakhandyman.com14www.stoneoakhighlights.comSeptember 2025