St. Alice (1204 to June 11, 1250)

"Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence." (Helen Keller)

Most people who hear the name St. Damien of Molokai immediately think about his work with lepers. But, there is a lesser known saint who actually was a leper.
St. Alice was born in Shaerbeck, Belgium in 1204. At age seven, she entered a Cistercian convent. St. Alice contracted leprosy and had to be isolated. She became blind and paralyzed, and was known for her visions and humility.
St. Alice received the Holy Eucharist but was not allowed to drink from the cup because of contamination. Jesus appeared to her and told her not to worry that he was in the body and blood.
St. Alice was a founder of the Order of Canonesses of Our Lady. She died on June 11, 1250. She is the patron saint of the blind and paralyzed. Her feast day is June 15.