Photo by Carson Hughes returns home from U.S. Capitol

U.S. Representative Erin Houchin delivered the photo Wednesday

(OSGOOD, Ind.) –   The impact Carson Hughes has made through his wildlife photography extends far beyond Southeast Indiana and still continues today. 

Shortly after his unexpected passing last year, one of his photos was submitted into the Congressional Art Competition for Indiana’s Ninth District. 

The photo he named “Breakfast Time” won the contest and earned the opportunity to be on display for one year in the U.S. Capitol.

Carson’s parents, Mandy and Jason, traveled to Washington D.C. last summer to participate in the ceremony that honored his work.

On Wednesday, the Hughes family received a visit from U.S. Representative Erin Houchin who personally returned the photo from Washington.

For Houchin, Carson’s story has impacted her greatly and she has often been seen wearing a #BeLikeCarson bracelet. 

“I’ve worn the bracelet for the last year until it wore off. I always appreciate it when someone notices it and asks, so I can tell them about Carson,” Rep. Houchin said. 

She added, “Carson helps me do my job better and it’s been a blessing to showcase his artistic talent and outlook. I am also blessed to call Jason and Mandy a part of my family now and they’re always in my prayers.”

The Hughes family continues to be touched by the support they’ve received from people locally and beyond. The visit from the congresswoman on Wednesday was no different. 

“Sometimes politicians are put on a pedestal, but they are humans just like us with real feelings, emotions and empathy. Beyond their title, there is a real person who is dealing with their own things in life and doing the best they can. We are blessed with a congresswoman that genuinely cares like she does,” Mandy said. 

Jason echoed that, saying Rep. Houchin has shown immense support even though she never met Carson, and has been under no obligation to be part of the photo process.

“What I love is when people genuinely care for him and care for us. We truly appreciate her remembering Carson, honoring what he stood for, and sharing his story all over the country.”  

Rep. Houchin presented a photo book to the family on Wednesday that depicted some of the different places the #BeLikeCarson bracelet has traveled over the past year. 

Here are just a few of the images (enlarge by clicking):

During the visit, Carson's parents also showed Rep. Houchin some of Carson’s photography and also discussed some upcoming initiatives through the Carson Hughes Memorial Foundation, Inc. 

Coming up next, the Carson Hughes Memorial Ride will take place in Osgood on Saturday, September 6.

You can get more information about the ride and can register by clicking here.