Born in 1840 in Belgium, Father Damien spent his last 16 years on the Hawaiian island of Moloka'i. For decades, anyone suffering from Hansen's disease (leprosy) was exiled to the island. Despite the risk, Father Damien dedicated his life to serving to the settlement's residents as priest, carpenter, farmer, doctor, and cook. In 1889, Father Damien died of the same disease he had worked so long to treat.
Feast Day: May 10
Patronage: Hawaii, HIV and Aids, Leprosy, Outcasts
