Autism After 22: :Life Beyond School

by Diana Romeo

363 pages, Paperback

Published March 31, 2026

About the author

Diana Romeo is a proud, full time, stay at home mother of two children. For 19 years she has been on the front line of mothering a very sweet boy, who falls on the moderate to severe side of the autism spectrum. She also is mother to a sweet and drama filled 17-year-old daughter. She has published the book From an Autism Mom with Love , and articles describing her family’s adventures in autism in Autism Parenting Magazine and Exceptional Parent Magazine. She has a degree in Business Management, and has worked in Human Resources.

Reviews

[Jennifer]

I am thrilled to be able to write this gleaming review of Diana‘s book. Diana‘s book perfectly illustrates the love and challenges she has faced with her sweet son. As a mom to an autistic adult, I can relate to everything she has written. The profound autism community is often overlooked. The general public really has no idea what families like ours go through. I recommend this book/memoir to everyone in the hopes that more acceptance and insight can be brought to families whose loved ones have similar challenges.

[Katie]

I enjoy reading Diana Romeo’s books. She writes each “chapter” as a letter to someone, in a journal style format. Letters to her son William, who has autism and some verbal ability. He reminds me a lot of my son Matthew. My heart went out to Diana when she describes William’s episodes of aggression, when he is not able to verbalize a frustration. We have had similar experiences with Matthew, and I still wear the physical and emotional scars proudly, because I never knew how strong I could be until being strong was the only choice I had. She also writes letters to her daughter, to medical professionals, and even letters to God. Diana‘s letters mirror so many thoughts I have had on this Autism Mom journey.

[Diana Stefan]

An incredibly honest and profound book.As a parent , I completely related to Diana Romeo.Her letters to God, William and the community are heartbreakingly beautiful.Diana captures the exact reality of the ,,services cliff " after age 22. This book sheds a much - needed light on adult autism and the severe lack of support systems. I highly recommend from the bottom of my heart.This book shows us that we are not alone on this journey!