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DJ Clem Offers Mom Free Baby Formula, If She'll Do Drug Test

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By WALT BELCHER | The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 3, 2008

TAMPA - Outspoken radio host Bubba the Love Sponge Clem has offered to help the mother of La'Damian Barton, the 5-month-old Tampa baby hospitalized with water intoxication -- if she takes a drug test.

Clem told his listeners this morning that if Jeri Moss will come to his studio to undergo a doctor-administered drug test and the test is determined to be negative, that he will pay for the baby's formula for as long as it is needed.

In addition, Clem said if the mother's drug test is negative, he will pay La'Damian's tuition at a Florida state college.

This morning, Clem questioned why Moss needed to save money by diluting baby formula. Callers have suggested that because formula is provided through assistance programs, this should not be necessary. Some speculated that she was spending her money on drugs.

Moss' story has made national headlines because Moss unknowingly almost killed her son by diluting the formula with water to make it last longer. She said she did it to save money.

The practice can lead to malnutrition, seizures, brain damage and damage to underdeveloped organs.

The case was featured Tuesday night on "NBC Nightly News With Brian Williams" and on the "Today Show" this morning.

La'Damian was released from University Community Hospital on Tuesday.

Clem's morning radio show is carried live on WHPT-FM (102.5 FM) in Tampa and on WFYV-FM (104.5 FM) in Jacksonville.

Reporter Walt Belcher can be reached at (813 259-7654 or wbelcher@tampatrib.com.

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