St. Rocco, or Roch, was born around 1348 in France. After his parents' death, Rocco sold all he owned and began a pilgrimage to Rome. When the plague struck Italy, Rocco healed the sick by praying and making the sign of the cross over them. Rocco himself fell ill, and was banished to an isolated hut outside the city walls. A dog from a nearby castle brought Rocco bread and kept him company every day until he recovered.