We have all witnessed the stunning transformation of Patrick Demsey over the years, and his outstanding performances in "Grey's Anatomy," "Lucky 7," "Bridget Jones's Baby," and plenty of others kept us glued to the screen. Besides Dempsey's talent and good looks, the actor is a real-life hero. In 2008, he founded the Dempsey Center, a nonprofit organization offering support services for cancer patients and their families. Those who enter its doors receive free counseling and access to support groups, massages, reiki, nutrition classes, and more.

Dempsey started the foundation in honor of his late mother, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1997 and passed away in 2014. "She was a tremendous symbol of hope in this community," he gushed in an interview with Today. His mother volunteered at the Dempsey Center, trying to help others cope with the disease. In 2009, the "Enchanted" star raised nearly $1 million for his foundation through the Dempsey Challenge. The event brought together over 3,500 cyclists, runners, and walking enthusiasts in honor of his worthy cause.

Four years later, Bowdoin College awarded Dempsey an honorary doctorate for his work in the cancer community. The actor hoped that being named the Sexiest Man Alive would allow him to do even more good out in the world. "It's nice to have the recognition, and certainly my ego takes a little bump, but it gives me the platform to use it for something positive," he asserted to People.