The wife of disgraced Christian radio host John Balyo will receive professional counseling if a Youcaring fundraising campaign looking to raise $50,000 is successful.
Balyo confessed to raping a 12 year old boy on Monday following his arrest at a Christian music festival. According to the Calhoun County Police Department, the former DJ was denied bail and is now facing life in prison. At the time of his trial, Balyo had been married to his wife, Bethany, a mere seven weeks.
According to the fundraising website, the disgraced radio host and his wife, Bethany, were married on April 25, 2014.
"On June 20, 2014, Bethany and her son's world was turned upside down by unforeseen circumstances. A new bride of just seven weeks, this now single mom is now experiencing something that no person should have to endure," the website reads.
"Bethany has always been the first one to reach out and help others, now it's our turn to help her and her son. Your generosity and compassion will help Bethany and her son with unexpected expenses such as counseling, medical care, loss of income, Bethany's personal court costs and just everyday living expenses due to these tragic circumstances," the statement continues.
Thus far, nearly $13,000 has been donated, in addition to dozens of messages left on the site encouraging Bethany and her young son.
"Praying for you and your family. I worked with John at camp for several years. My prayers are also with him, as Satan is alive and active and able to take hold of even the smallest of our temptations, no matter how strong we believe we are," wrote Katie who donated $100.
"Bethany, I cannot imagine the emotional rollercoaster you have been on the last week. I pray for God's best in this situation for you and your son. May He use even these tragic circumstances to make an impact for His kingdom! "wrote an anonymous user who donated $250.
Following his arrest, Balyo was fired from the Cornerstone University based radio station WCSG, where he had worked for 8 years.
However, the station released a statement saying it will continue to offer a "Christian-centered influence" both locally and nationwide via the Internet.
Chris Lemke, general manager for the station, went on air to urge listeners to pray for Balyo, his family, co-workers and alleged victims after Balyo was accused of paying for sexual encounters with children.
"God's people will not lose heart," Lemke told listeners.
"But we can't make sense of this. ... Did you ever have any doubt Satan was loose?"
Balyo will undergo a probable-cause hearing Aug. 4 on allegations he sexually assaulted a child.
