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Life Goes On is a groundbreaking American television drama that aired on ABC from 1989 to 1993. The series centers on the Thatcher family living in the suburbs of Chicago, navigating the everyday challenges of middle-class life. The show is most notable for being the first television series to feature a main character with Down syndrome, Corky Thatcher, whose journey toward independence and inclusion serves as the emotional heart of the narrative. Throughout its four-season run, the series tackled complex social issues, including the integration of students with disabilities into mainstream high schools, the struggles of teenage pregnancy, and the realities of living with HIV/AIDS. By focusing on the resilience of the Thatcher family—led by parents Drew and Libby—the show provided a compassionate and realistic look at how families adapt to life's unexpected obstacles while maintaining their bonds.
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Television Guide
The inaugural season introduces the Thatcher family as they fight to get their son Corky enrolled in a regular high school, setting the tone for the series' focus on advocacy and family unity.
The family continues to support Corky's growth while dealing with the evolving lives of their daughter Becca and the pressures of their community.
The series shifts focus toward more mature themes, including Becca's relationship with Jesse, who is diagnosed with HIV.
In the final season, the characters face significant life transitions, including graduation and the ongoing challenges of Jesse's illness.
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