Author Raises Food Allergy Awareness with Children's Book

Watson Clinic Women’s Center radiologic technologist and children’s book author Jennifer Hazen Buss understands the challenges of helping a child cope with a food allergy. Her two youngest children – Isabella and Alexander - have been living with debilitating food allergies for years.

“Beyond the obvious physical dangers, severe food allergies can also result in low self-esteem and a feeling of isolation from your peer group,” Buss explains.

With her writing pen in hand, and with the help of illustrator Noel Hodge, Buss decided to use her gifts to raise awareness and inspire children to find strength in the face of adversity.

First released in 2016, “This is Nuts!” tells the story of Shelly the Peanut, a school-aged outcast who is allergic to humans. Desperate to be eaten by a human, she finds a little girl named Celeste who teaches her how to be proud of the qualities that make her different.

“These children need to know that they’re not alone and that they are special and loved just the way they are,” Buss says.

In concert with Food Allergy Awareness Week on May 12 – 18, Buss has decided to donate copies of her book to Watson Clinic pediatric patients who possess food allergies.

These books will be available in the offices of board-certified Allergy, Asthma & Immunology specialists Lionel Vasco Bonini, MD and G. Weyman Price, MD for their pediatric patients throughout the month of May.

Dr. Bonini treats patients from Watson Clinic Main at 1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd. in Lakeland, while Dr. Price’s offices are located at Watson Clinic South at 1033 N. Parkway Frontage Rd. in south Lakeland.

Watson Clinic Technologist & Children’s Book Author Raises Awareness of Pediatric Food Allergies Through Book Donations (pg 2)

“My hope is that this book will inspire children and parents alike in showing how you can thrive in the face of food allergies,” Buss continues. “I’m thrilled to be able to share this book with Watson Clinic patients who can benefit from its message.”

Appointments with Dr. Bonini may be scheduled by calling 863-680-7486 or with Dr. Price at 863-647-4045. Buss’s book “This is Nuts!” may be purchased online through Amazon.

As one of the largest multispecialty medical clinics in the southeast, Watson Clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services to residents of Lakeland and surrounding communities. First established in 1941, Watson Clinic has grown to include over 220 board-certified physicians representing more than 40 medical and surgical specialties. The Clinic is proud to deliver quality healthcare to every generation from our Main Clinic location at 1600 Lakeland Hills Boulevard in Lakeland, as well as at multiple convenient locations throughout Polk, Pasco and Hillsborough counties. More information is available at: watsonclinic.com