The theories put forward by astrophysicist Stephen Hawking helped advance the field of physics in the 20th century.
Whether his theories were right or wrong, he helped engaged the world's scientific community, as our own space program has benefited in the development of our current space telescopes satellites and probes that are exploring our planetary systems today.
While most people with his disabilities would have quit, Hawking never gave up. We know more about Black Holes today because of him.
Using computer aided speech, he has been able to continue his work in astrophysics. I wonder where would we be today if it were not for his input into the scientific community.
He's won many awards including the Albert Einstein award in 1978 and the presidential medal of freedom in 2009.