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Saint Gianna Beretta Molla was an Italian physician and mother who lived from October 4, 1922 to April 28, 1962. She is remembered for her selfless devotion to her family and her commitment to her Catholic faith.
Gianna was born in Magenta, Italy, to a large family of devout Catholics. As a young girl, Gianna openly accepted her faith and the Catholic-Christian education provided to her from her loving parents. She grew up viewing life as God's beautiful gift and found the greatest necessity and effectiveness in prayer.
She excelled in her studies and went on to study medicine at the University of Pavia in 1949 and in 1950 she opened a medical office in Mesero, near her hometown of Magenta where she provided care to those in need, regardless of their ability to pay.
Gianna ultimately chose the vocation of marriage and considered this to be a gift from God. Gianna embraced this gift with all her being and completely dedicated herself to "forming a truly Christian family".
In 1955, Gianna married Pietro Molla. In the following years the Mollas had three children together: Pierluigi, Mariolina, and Laura. During her fourth pregnancy in 1962, she was diagnosed with a fibroma on her uterus. Doctors advised her to have an abortion, but Gianna refused, choosing instead to have a Caesarean section so as to spare the life of her unborn child. She was willing to give her own life to save the life of her child. Their baby, Gianna Emanuela Molla was born in April of 1962. Tragically, Saint Gianna died on April 28th, 1962 from complications after the birth of the baby. She was age 39.
One interesting fact about Saint Gianna is that she was the inspiration behind the first pro-life Catholic healthcare center for women in New York, the Gianna Center.
Saint Gianna was beatified by Pope John Paul II on April 24th, 1994, and was canonized by Pope Francis on May 16th, 2004. Her feast day is celebrated on April 28.
Saint Gianna Beretta Molla is remembered as a model of faith, courage, and love. She lived a life of service to others. Her commitment to protecting the life of her unborn child and her love for her family continue to inspire people around the world today.
She is honored as the patron saint of mothers, mothers-to-be, and unborn children. Her legacy, particulary for the unborn and the sanctity of life, is inspiring to us all.
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