Gianna Beretta Molla was an Italian, born and raised in a devoutly Catholic family. She volunteered many hours for young people and the elderly, while also earning her degree in Medicine and Pediatrics. In her early thirties, she met and married Pietro Molla, and dedicated herself to raising a "truly Christian family". She soon after had three children, and continued to balance her family life while working in medicine part-time and accepting that her husband travelled abroad frequently for his own career!
During the early months of her fourth pregnancy, Gianna found out that she had developed a fibroma in her uterus. Although advised to abort, she continued to trust in God and carry on with her pregnancy. She prayed for her child's health and for a safe delivery for this little life. A few days before the child was due, she was ready to give her life in order to save that of her child: “If you must decided between me and the child, do not hesitate: choose the child - I insist on it. Save him”.
Despite all efforts and treatments to save both of them, on the morning of April 28, about a week after baby Gianna was born, the Saint died. She was 39 years old.
Being a new wife and mother, I truly feel that St. Gianna can relate to many of my prayers. In reading some of her letters to her husband, I've learned that she struggled and was likely sanctified through little things such as fatigue, pregnancies, and the everyday crosses of marriage and motherhood. For this, I feel so grateful that the Church gave us her example to follow. St. Gianna, pray for us!
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