Chrichelle Fernandez
What makes Chrichelle Wildly Capable?
Chrichelle is an incredibly supportive military spouse and boy mama. In 2018, Chrichelle and her husband purchased their first laser machine and launched their small business. Through word of mouth and social media, Sweet Pineapple Shop grew and now serves customers across the U.S. and at military bases around the world. I’m deeply inspired by her creativity and commitment to the service member community.” JACQUELINE S IT
What makes you feel proud?
I feel proud supporting military families. My husband was gone so much when he was active duty and I felt the pain of trying to function daily without him. With his support, we created a structured deployed families support program during our time in one of his previous squadrons. I’m also proud to be a football mom. I was our son’s team mom for seven years and the friendships and support we had during that time helped our family during a difficult year in school when he was continuously bullied.
What keeps you up at night?
I wonder how our two sons are doing at school and if they’re thriving in their current environments. I continuously pray that students who are struggling and trying to find their place in the world will receive the care and leadership they need for a successful future. My husband recently retired from the Air Force and now works for Boeing testing brand new airplanes, so I pray about his safety daily. I also think often about my health and if a new flare up will be coming on. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in June 2015 and have suffered from short vision loss, numbness on the right side of my body, difficulty walking, and other medical mysteries.
Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why?
My parents have had the biggest influence in my life. For as long as I could remember they were always hard workers and committed to making sure my brothers and I were taken care of. My dad served 20 years in the U.S. Army and my mom was a nurse for more than 40 years. They were both always all-in during their careers, but still managed to put our family first. My mom did her best to keep things normal for us when my dad was gone, and even after my dad retired, he still makes it a point to stay busy around the house and take care of us and other families to make sure everyone is well.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
So much is expected of working moms. It’s okay to stop and breathe. My heart wants to help people every chance I get. I quickly forget that I need to take care of myself first in order to continue helping others.
