The Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee has started a novena to honor St. Gianna Molla, patron saint of mothers, unborn babies and physicians. The nine-day prayer recognition will carry through until St. Gianna’s feast day April 28.

The first day, Tuesday, was dedicated to those facing difficult pregnancies.

“St. Gianna Beretta Molla knew what it was like to struggle with a challenging medical diagnosis during pregnancy,” the diocese posted on Facebook. “We ask St. Gianna’s prayers for all women who are struggling with a vulnerable pregnancy at this time. 

Wednesday’s prayers were for healthcare workers, who have been under higher stress than normal for the past couple of years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

St. Gianna Beretta Molla was born in Milan in 1922. As a young child, she was deeply faithful and drawn to God, Vatican News says, then as a young adult, she dedicated herself to apostolic service. 

In 1949, she earned a degree in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Pavia. Later, she opened a medical center. After specializing in Pediatrics at the University of Milan, St. Gianna turned her focus to caring for mothers, babies, elderly people and the poor, Vatican News says. 

Gianna and engineer Pietro Molla married in 1955, according to Franciscan Media. While they were courting, Gianna sent him a letter, writing, "Love is the most beautiful sentiment that the Lord has put into the soul of men and women.” 

Gianna and Pietro had three children before Gianna experienced two miscarriages, the outlet says. With those behind her, she became pregnant again. While carrying that baby, doctors discovered that Gianna had a tumor in her uterus. Doctors recommended a hysterectomy, but she would not allow it because it would have killed the child; she did, though, have the tumor removed. After a daughter, Gianna Emanuela Molla, was born, St. Gianna passed away from post-operative complications. Gianna Emanuela went on to become a physician, following in her mother’s footsteps. 

St. Gianna’s feast day is celebrated on April 28, Catholic.org says.