Sioux Falls Meteorologist Rallies Support for Son
Lexie Merley is selling shirts to help fund her son Dreyton's cancer treatment following his recent medical diagnosis.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Philanthropy
Dakota News Now meteorologist Lexie Merley is organizing a community effort to support her son, Dreyton Merley, who was recently diagnosed with stage 2 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The family has launched a shirt fundraiser to cover the costs of his ongoing cancer treatment.
Why it matters
The fundraiser provides a tangible way for the local Sioux Falls community to offer financial and emotional support to a family navigating a serious health crisis. Proceeds from these sales go directly toward medical expenses.
Dreyton Merley has received a clinical diagnosis of stage 2 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The family is currently managing costs associated with the necessary medical treatment.
The players
Dreyton Merley
He is the son of a local meteorologist who is currently undergoing treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Lexie Merley
She is a professional meteorologist at Dakota News Now in Sioux Falls.
The details
Supporters in Sioux Falls can contribute to the medical fund by purchasing a 'We Fight For Dreyton Shirt'. This community-driven initiative serves as a direct financial support mechanism for the Merley family as they begin the treatment process.
Timeline
The diagnosis and fundraising efforts were reported on October 22, 2026.
Market Landscape
This fundraiser follows the established pattern of community-based medical crowdfunding used by families to supplement healthcare financing. It demonstrates how local media figures leverage their personal platforms to mobilize support within their immediate geographic region.
Residents of Sioux Falls can participate in this effort by purchasing a shirt to assist the family with mounting medical expenses. The fundraiser directly impacts the Merley family's ability to cover costs associated with the child's stage 2 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma treatment.
The takeaway
Community-led fundraisers often provide essential bridge funding for families managing unexpected medical costs. Those interested in supporting the family can look for local official channels to ensure their contributions reach the intended cause.
Further reading
Learn more about local charitable initiatives in the Sioux Falls Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Dakotanewsnow.
