Dymphna was an Irish princess whose father became violent and dangerous with mental illness. Accompanied by her priest, court jester, and servants, Dymphna fled to a place called Gheel. There she used her wealth to build a hospital. When her father heard this, he found Dymphna and took her life while she defended her chastity. But the story did not end there. Under Dymphna’s patronage, Gheel has become a sanctuary of love, kindness and even miracles for those suffering from mental illness.

Patron saint of:
depression
incest victims
mental illness
runaways