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Chiara Petrillo

Italian mother who, while battling terminal cancer, lived with remarkable faith and joy, offering her suffering for the sake of her family and the Church.

Born – Died
1984 – 2012
Country
Status
Servant of God
Profession
Wife
Mother

Chiara Petrillo

Chiara Corbella Petrillo (1984–2012) was an Italian mother whose life exemplified profound faith and selflessness. Born into a devout Christian family, she met her husband, Enrico Petrillo, during a pilgrimage to Medjugorje. They married in 2008 and soon after, Chiara became pregnant with their first child. Tragically, their baby was diagnosed with a severe malformation and died shortly after birth. Despite this heartbreak, Chiara and Enrico remained open to life and conceived again. Their second child, David, was also diagnosed with a serious condition and passed away shortly after birth.

In 2010, Chiara became pregnant for the third time, and this child, named Francesco, was born healthy. However, during her pregnancy, Chiara was diagnosed with a severe form of cancer. She chose to continue her pregnancy, giving birth to Francesco in June 2011. Chiara passed away on June 13, 2012, at the age of 28, just six days after her son's birth.

Chiara's life and unwavering faith have inspired many. In 2017, the Diocese of Rome initiated the diocesan phase of her cause for beatification, recognizing her as a Servant of God. The diocesan phase concluded in June 2024, and her cause is now under consideration by the Vatican.

Enrico Petrillo, Chiara's husband, reflected on her strength, stating, "Chiara wasn't a courageous woman; her strength came from someone else."