In Across five aprils what details that the Creightons lead difficult lives?

The first chapter begins by presenting Ellen Creighton with her son, Jethro, planting potatoes. Ellen has twelve children from which four died the year Jethro was born.The heart attack is a symbol that stands for the inner turmoil that Matt experienced. The stress that was the result of the war, his sons leaving his home and the public scrutiny he faced made Matt reach his breaking point. After Jethro is attacked, Matt tries to seek justice for his son but is unable to do it because he has a heart attack.