Sainte Ode (or Odile) is a saint venerated in Lorraine and Alsace. According to tradition, she was born blind in the 7th century in a noble family of Alsace. Her father, refusing her handicap, had her sent away, but she miraculously regained her sight during her baptism. Having become a nun, she founded the monastery of Hohenbourg (Mont Sainte-Odile), where she led a life of prayer and charity. She is known for her miracles and her protection of the blind and visually impaired. She died in the odor of sanctity around 720. She is the patron saint of Alsace and of people suffering from visual impairments. Her cult is still very much alive in Lorraine and in the East of France.
