Carmichael’s Bookstores is pleased to host the kickoff event for a new book by Patrick Henry Hughes and Patrick John Hughes, the Louisville young man and his father who have inspired a nation with their courage, determination and faith. Patrick and his dad will give a talk based on their new book, I Am Potential: Eight Lessons on Living, Loving, and Reaching Your Dreams, at the University of Louisville School of Music's Comstock Concert Hall on Wednesday, November 19th beginning at 7 PM. The talk will be followed by a musical performance by Patrick and the national premiere of a touching video about Patrick and his family created by the Christian musicians Blood Kin entitled Why Us.

I Am Potential is the extraordinary story of these two remarkable people — a young man with uncanny musical talent who has turned what some would call disabilities into abilities and opportunities, and a father brimming with love and pride, thankful for the gift of this son. In the book, Patrick shares the eight critical lessons he learned that are at the heart of his success. These lessons, such as "When Life Gives You Lemons, Accept Them and Be Grateful," embody the positive attitude and love of life that have made Patrick an inspiration to all who have met him, including Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, and everyone who was involved in the Hughes' family's Extreme Home Makeover.

At age 20, Patrick is already an award-winning musician who has performed at the Kennedy Center and the Grand Ole Opry. In 2006, Patrick won the Disney Wide World of Sports Spirit Award and was featured on ESPN. He and his father have also appeared on Oprah, Ellen, and, of course, Extreme Home Makeover.