This article highlights the experiences of AnneClaire Stapleton and Kevin Franciotti, two individuals whose lives were deeply affected by trauma and opioid addiction. Each ultimately turned to ibogaine, a psychoactive compound traditionally used in Central African spiritual practices and now drawing attention in the United States for its potential therapeutic applications. Their stories unfold alongside Colorado’s evolving policy landscape following the 2022 passage of the Natural Medicine Health Act.
Today, Stapleton serves as Chief Communications Officer for Americans for Ibogaine, where she works with national leaders and advocates to expand education and policy conversations around ibogaine research. Together with colleagues and partners across the country, she is helping elevate personal recovery stories as lawmakers consider clinical trials and broader pathways for studying ibogaine within the American medical system.