Autism diagnosis reshapes family’s life in Romania

In Romania, Alexandru, a child who loves people, received a diagnosis of autism at two years and eight months old, changing the course of his family’s life.

Before the diagnosis, Alexandru eagerly sought connection with others. Afterward, his mother began a journey to secure his future, facing a lack of institutional support and navigating a complex system of therapies and evaluations. Years followed filled with intensive therapy as Alexandru learned to communicate and adapt.

While he made progress, beginning to speak after a year of intervention, each step brought new challenges, including difficulty finding inclusive schooling. His mother often had to advocate for his right to education and explain his needs to skeptical institutions. School presented further hurdles. Alexandru struggled with the sensory overload of a classroom and sometimes retreated, prompting both refusals from after-school programs and moments of painful exclusion, such as being left behind during an outing with peers.

Despite these difficulties, he continued to seek friendships, enduring rejection and learning the often-unspoken rules of social interaction. His mother also navigated the financial strain of his care, over 10,000 lei monthly for essential therapies, while balancing work and the constant demands of ensuring his well-being. Today, Alexandru continues to need support, but demonstrates cognitive ability alongside challenges with attention and social participation. His mother is now seeking a new school where he can feel accepted.