Servite Saint Peregrine Laziosi
St. Peregrine labored as a brother in the Order of Servants of Mary (Servites).
At age 60 he was diagnosed with cancer of the leg brought on by many years of disciplined prayer while standing, resulting in varicose veins which became ulcerous.
On the night before the scheduled amputation of his leg, Peregrine dragged himself to the foot of the cross in the community chapter room and fell into a deep trance-like sleep. Upon waking, he discovered that his leg was completely cured.
Peregrine continued his work with the poor and all who came to him in need. He experienced the forgiveness and mercy of God in his life and sought to share it with others.
When he died in 1345 he was already being revered as a saint. He was officially canoninzed in 1726, and is considered the patron of those who suffer from cancer, AIDS and other serious and life-threatening diseases.
