Fashion With Purpose
An Interview with Ruth Gonzalez of Texas WINGS
By Jules Aldaz
Fashion has always been more than clothing—it is a language of confidence, identity, and resilience. For women facing breast cancer, style can serve as strength during an incredibly vulnerable time. To explore this intersection of fashion and healing, I sat down with Ruth Gonzalez, Executive Director of Women Involved in Nurturing, Giving, and Sharing (WINGS), a nonprofit that provides no-cost breast cancer treatment for uninsured women across Central and South Texas. What I discovered was not only the power of fashion, but also the life-saving mission behind Texas WINGS.
Fashion has a way of lifting spirits. What does your style say about you?
“It depends on the day! Sometimes I want to feel happy and colorful, sometimes ultra-relaxed, and other times more conservative. Lately, I’ve been in ‘business mode,’ but I always believe personality shines through clothing. Fashion should be fun—that’s the point.”
If you could describe the WINGS mission as a fashion accessory, what would it be?
“Texas style—bold and impactful. Think a big necklace, bold bracelets, lashes, and big hair. WINGS is about making a statement and ensuring women are seen and supported.”
Survivors often talk about rediscovering confidence. How does fashion play into that?
“Fashion is everything. After surgery, you may lose your hair, eyelashes, or breasts. While those don’t define us, society makes appearance feel important. A wig, lashes, or even a tube of lipstick can restore confidence. I’ve seen it firsthand—at WINGS photo shoots, survivors absolutely glow after hair, makeup, and new outfits. For women who live in poverty, those moments are rare. But for that one moment, they get to feel whole again.”
WINGS also provides specialized garments. Can you share more?
“We fund undergarments designed for post-surgery care—bras, camis, and sleeves to support recovery and lymphatic drainage. We work with professional boutiques to ensure the right fit. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about dignity and healing.”
Tell us how WINGS began.
“We bridge the gap between diagnosis and treatment. Once a woman is diagnosed, we fast-track her to care, and WINGS pays her breast-cancer-related bills. We’re not an insurance company, but we ensure every medical claim gets covered—chemo, radiation, surgeries, scans, labs. Our programs graduate women from active treatment to long-term survivorship. Some women have been with us for 16 years.”
For readers who want to help, what’s the first step?
'“Email me directly at RuthG@texaswings.org with “Get Involved” in the subject line. Donations, volunteering, or business partnerships all make a huge difference. For example, companies like Rudy’s and Brighton have partnered with us during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to donate proceeds. Every contribution helps us save lives.”
And on a personal note—what’s your go-to fashion choice?
“Pink—always! You’ll see me in pink and black, with heels or boots depending on the day. I used to live in heels, but after knee surgery I mix in flats and sneakers too. Comfort, personality, and fun are my essentials.”
About Texas WINGS
Founded: 1999 by breast cancer survivor Terri Jones
Mission: Provide no-cost breast cancer treatment for uninsured women across Central and South Texas
Programs: Fast-tracked treatment, undergarment support, patient navigation, and long-term survivorship care
Get Involved: Email Ruth Gonzalez at RuthG@texaswings.org or visit texaswings.org
WINGS shows us that fashion is not frivolous—it is powerful. It restores dignity, uplifts spirits, and helps women feel whole again. Under Ruth Gonzalez’s leadership, WINGS is more than a nonprofit; it is a lifeline. And with every bold accessory, every pink ribbon, and every act of generosity, WINGS continues its mission: saving lives, one woman at a time. ■
