Saint Blaise was a physician and bishop of Sebastea in historical Armenia (modern Sivas, Turkey) who is venerated as a Christian saint and martyr.

The first reference to Blaise is the medical writings of Aëtius Amidenus where his aid is invoked in treating objects stuck in the throat. Marco Polo reported the place where "Messer Saint Blaise obtained the glorious crown of martyrdom", Sebastea.

From being a healer of bodily ailments, Saint Blaise became an expert of souls, then retired for a time to a cavern where he remained in prayer. As bishop of Sebastea, Blaise instructed his people as much by his example as by his words, and the great virtues and sanctity of the servant of God were attested by many miracles. From all parts, the people came flocking to him for the cure of bodily and spiritual ills. He is said to have healed animals (who came to the saint on their own for his assistance) and to have been assisted by animals.

In 316 the governor of Cappadocia and Lesser Armenia, Agricolaus, began a persecution by order of the Emperor Licinius, and Saint Blaise was seized. After his interrogation and a severe scourging, he was beheaded.

According to the Acts of Saint Blaise, while he was being taken into custody, a distraught mother, whose only child was choking on a fish bone, threw herself at his feet and implored his intercession. Touched at her grief, he offered up his prayers, and the child was cured. Consequently, Saint Blaise is invoked for protection against injuries and illnesses of the throat.

Other Saints of the Day
1. Saint Anatolius
2. Saint Berlinda
3. Saint Deodatus
4. Saint Oliver
5. Saint Philip of Vienne

-catholic.org