THE DALLES — Children in The Dalles can pick and exchange free Hot Wheels cars at “Baby Al’s Forever Garage,” in honor of the late 2-year-old who passed away in an animal attack last year.
Baby Al’s grandmother and legal guardian, Jessica Page, built the garage — similar to a Little Free Library but for toy cars — on the first anniversary of her grandson’s death, aiming to “keep his memory alive, make sure his life continues to have an impact on the world around us … and share the joy of something that brought him so much happiness,” she said.
Page recalled cherished memories when Baby Al and his “Papa” would go to Walmart together and search high and low for cars they didn’t already have. “Those moments may have seemed simple to the outside world, but they were precious memories that will forever be a part of our family,” she added.
Baby Al’s family hopes that the garage becomes more than just a place to find toys, but somewhere his name will continue to be spoken — where his memory can bring smiles to children’s faces. “He is not defined by the tragic way we lost him,” Page said. “He is defined by the little boy he was, the joy he brought to others, the love he shared with his family, and the memories that will stay with us forever.”
Page is now working to raise awareness surrounding animal attacks, especially those involving children; one effort includes getting the state of Oregon to officially recognize Oct. 14 as Animal Attack Awareness Day. “My hope is to create an annual day of remembrance for children and individuals whose lives have been lost or forever changed by animal attacks, while bringing attention to prevention and public safety,” she said.
Also working on a “complete piece” about Baby Al, which includes more details regarding the circumstances of the incident, Page wants to prevent further tragedy while approaching information-sharing thoroughly and accurately, noting that rumors, misinformation, and uncertainty have clouded what happened.
“I want people to know his story, to understand how quickly life can change, and to recognize the importance of taking steps to protect our children,” Page said. “If sharing our experience can help even one family avoid experiencing this kind of heartbreak, then something meaningful can come from our unimaginable loss.”
Baby Al’s Forever Garage is located at 1701 Oregon St. in The Dalles.
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