"Sam has demonstrated extraordinary generosity of time, talent and resources, and his efforts have touched many people," said Peter T Wilderotter, president and CEO of the Reeve Foundation, "This award is presented with gratitude to Sam for his enthusiastic dedication, loyal support and inspirational example."

On a lighter note, Andretti Green Racing driver Patrick came out on top of another annual list, beating golfer Tiger Woods, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and Super Bowl-winning New York Giant Eli Manning to be named as the most searched for athlete in 2008, according to AOL's review of internet, mobile and video searches.

The 26-year old, who raced into national prominence with a fourth-place finish in the Indianapolis 500 in 2005, increased her popularity with several milestones in 2008 and, prior to the start of the IndyCar season, graced the pages of Sports Illustrated's legendary Swimsuit Edition, an issue that reaches more than 69 million readers as well as more than 250 million online visitors.