Former 'Extreme Makeover' Family On Site For Indy Build

Hughes Family Given Makeover In 2007

Posted: 04/01/2009
Last Updated: 1510 days ago

The McFarlands need to be ready for instant celebrity. That's the advice from a former "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" family who visited the Indianapolis build site Wednesday.

The life of the Hughes family changed overnight in 2007 when the ABC show's crew showed up on the doorstep of their Louisville, Ky., home.

"(In our old house) there was a lot of maintenance I couldn't get to and a lot of problems with the house they didn't show on TV," Patrick Hughes told 6News' Jennifer Carmack.

Patrick, his wife Patricia and their oldest son, Patrick Henry, made the trip to the Indianapolis build site on Wednesday, where crews are constructing a home and separate library for Bernard McFarland, his three sons and the entire neighborhood.

The Hughes are still reaping the rewards of their national TV debut, particularly Patrick Henry, who now has his own wheelchair-accessible apartment.

"It's given me a lot more independence. I am able to get around more easily and there's some great technology that enables me to do certain things more independently," he said.

The brand new home did create some new expenses for the family, but Patrick Hughes said it all balances out.

"People ask all the time if there's a downside what would it be? There really is none. It's an incredibly positive experience for our family," he said. "Our utilities have gone up, but our mortgage payments are no longer in existence."

The hardest thing to get used to for the Hughes after the show aired was everyone knowing their names. They said they're sure the McFarlands will take it all in stride.

"It will be an adjustment for them, but it will be a great adjustment," Patricia Hughes said.

"Enjoy the moments that are about to come," Patrick Hughes said. "It's going to be breathtaking and you're going to be busy and people are going to recognize you everywhere you go. Just enjoy it for all that it is."

The big reveal for the McFarlands' home is set for Saturday. The episode is slated to air as the show's May 17 season finale.


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