Emmy Award(R) nominee! Patrick Henry Hughes is a remarkable young man. Born without eyes, unable to walk and unable to fully straighten his arms and legs, Patrick nevertheless has excelled as a student and musician. He started playing the piano at an extremely young age and took up the trumpet in elementary school. He learns by listening to recorded music.

As a student at the University of Louisville, Patrick joined the Cardinal Marching Band. Director Dr. Greg Byrne was determined that Patrick participate in the entire experience, so he crafted drills that allowed Patrick’s father to push his wheelchair through the formations. The sight of this father-son team inspired fans. Indeed, inspiring others is something Patrick Henry Hughes does best.

Patrick doesn’t expect people to treat him differently, and in turn they treat him with kindness and respect. If Patrick’s condition had been diagnosed in the womb today, however, doctors likely would have advised his parents to abort the pregnancy. The Hugheses hope parents and families learn from their remarkable story, and see the blessings that can come from challenging situations.