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25 Presley Gerber openly documented his struggle with addiction and his hopes for recovery in one of the final personal posts he shared before his death at age 27.
Gerber, the son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessman Rande Gerber, died on September 20 while at a rehabilitation facility, according to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner records. His cause of death has not been publicly determined, and an investigation remains ongoing. People
Months before his death, the model offered followers a candid glimpse into an ibogaine treatment experience. In a March Instagram post, Gerber shared footage from what he described as the quiet period before receiving a “flood dose.”
“I was absolutely terrified,” he admitted while reflecting on the difficulty of surrendering control and placing his trust in the people helping him.
Gerber expressed hope that the treatment would mark a lasting turning point in his recovery. He wrote that he was “praying it’s the last time” and described wanting to find his way back to himself.
His family publicly supported his recovery
The vulnerable post drew loving responses from Gerber’s family.
Crawford praised her son’s courage, describing him as a warrior and saying she was proud of him for confronting what he was experiencing. His sister, model Kaia Gerber, also celebrated his strength, while his father expressed pride in his willingness to face something so difficult.
Their messages reflected the family’s support as Gerber publicly navigated addiction and mental-health challenges.
In previous interviews and social-media posts, Gerber had discussed depression, anxiety, substance use and the challenges of finding effective treatment. He hoped that speaking honestly about those experiences could make other people feel less alone.
What is ibogaine treatment?
Ibogaine is a psychoactive substance derived from a Central African plant. It has attracted interest as an experimental treatment for substance-use disorders, but it is not an FDA-approved addiction treatment in the United States.
Research into related compounds continues. In 2026, the FDA allowed an early-stage clinical study of noribogaine—an active metabolite of ibogaine—to proceed as a potential treatment for alcohol-use disorder. That development does not mean ibogaine itself has been established as safe or effective. U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Gerber’s post should therefore be understood as his personal account of an experimental treatment, not as medical advice or an endorsement of the therapy.
Remembering Presley Gerber’s openness
Gerber began modeling as a teenager and worked with major fashion houses, including Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana and Moschino. Yet some of his most meaningful public moments came when he moved beyond fashion imagery and spoke honestly about the private struggles behind it.
Following his death, his deeply personal treatment post has taken on added significance. It captures a young man confronting fear, searching for healing and hoping that sharing his experience might help someone else.
Gerber’s family has requested privacy while mourning his loss.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, the SAMHSA National Helpline provides free and confidential treatment referrals at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). For immediate emotional or mental-health support in the United States, call or text 988.
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