Today’s “love story” is about the Pelligrino family, an article by Jim Graves that originally appeared in the Catholic World Report. The mom, Francesca, expresses a reality for many special-needs families, of the toll that caring for a special-needs child can take on a marriage.

She is also grateful for the steadfast support of her husband Frank. In special-needs circles, the challenges of having a child with a disability can bring out the best and the worst in husbands. Some, like Frank, rise to the occasion and devote themselves to the care of their families. Others can grow distant and abandon the family.

Francesca is also grateful for the network of families with special-needs children which gave her support during “dark days.” She said, “I’ve met many wonderful people in a similar situation to mine, and they’ve helped me come closer to Christ.”

Today’s Love in Action: In times of stress, how do you get the support you need from those closest to you? Recognizing — and being thankful for — these tiny signs of God’s love can make the difference between facing the future with fear … or with hope.