Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber Are Surrounded by Close Friends as They Grieve Son Presley: ‘There’s So Much Sadness’ (Exclusive)

Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber have found solace in the company of loved ones as they navigate the heartbreaking loss of their son, Presley Gerber, who passed away on September 20 at the age of 27 from an apparent overdose. Reports suggest that the couple is leaning heavily on their daughter, Kaia Gerber, among other close friends, during this incredibly challenging time.

An insider revealed to PEOPLE that the family has been spending quality time together in Los Angeles, surrounded by supportive friends. According to the source, no one expects the family to resume ‘normal’ life anytime soon. “Everyone is just there for whatever they need that day,” they explained, adding that the pervasive feeling of sadness has made daily life feel particularly difficult.

Cindy Crawford, who is now 60, is said to be “overwhelmed” by her grief, feeling the loss of Presley acutely each morning. This ongoing heartache shadows her throughout the day, making even the simplest tasks seem burdensome. “It’s still hard to get through every day. Every day feels difficult because of the sadness,” the source pointed out.

Just a few weeks after Presley’s death, the family took to social media to express their profound sorrow. In a joint statement shared on Crawford’s Instagram, they said, “We are beyond heartbroken to lose our beloved son and brother.” Their heartfelt message described Presley as a “sweet, beautiful soul” who will forever hold a special place in their lives. They expressed pride in his ability to show kindness and vulnerability.

Kaia also paid tribute to her brother with a poignant message, reflecting on the struggle to capture her feelings in words. She noted how language often fails to convey the true depth of grief. “How naive of me to believe that language could transcend grief,” she wrote, emphasising Presley’s inherent goodness and the lessons he imparted to those closest to him.

Presley’s untimely death reportedly occurred while he was at a rehabilitation facility, according to records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. He suffered an apparent overdose that led to cardiac arrest. The circumstances of his passing are still under investigation, and an autopsy has been performed, although the cause of death has been deferred for further analysis.

Following Presley’s death, a statement from the Medical Examiner confirmed that he was pronounced dead shortly after the paramedics arrived on the scene. They noted that the investigation is ongoing, with limited information currently available. His body was released to a mortuary shortly thereafter, in accordance with family wishes.

After learning of his tragic passing, a family representative issued a plea for privacy, acknowledging the profound pain they are experiencing. A source close to Crawford conveyed the supermodel’s shock and heartache, describing her as “completely in shock” over her son’s death. Meanwhile, a family friend revealed that Kaia is equally heartbroken and supportive of her brother’s openness about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse.

In the weeks leading up to his death, Presley had been candid about his challenges, sharing details of his mental health journey and substance abuse. His sister, Kaia, had previously discussed his ten-year battle with addiction in a Vogue interview. She reflected on how a crisis in the family can profoundly affect everyone involved, often leading individuals to prioritise the needs of others over their own.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing difficulties related to mental health or substance abuse, help is available. The SAMHSA helpline can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP, while additional resources can be accessed through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or via their online chat service, available 24/7.