About Author

About the Author

Meet Michelle Lassa

Michelle Lassa, M.S., LPC was born and raised in Wisconsin. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Stout with honors and earned her Master of Science degree in Forensic Psychology from California State University – Los Angeles. Michelle has been providing mental health care since 2007. She is also trained in suicide prevention, crisis intervention, and verbal judo. She has a passion for learning about others and helping people with a variety of mental health concerns.

Michelle Lassa, M.S., LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for helping children and families cope with loss, emotions, and life’s challenges. As a mother, wife, and pet lover, she understands how deep the bond between a child and their pet can be. When a pet passes away, it can be a confusing and heartbreaking experience, especially for young children.
With her background in counseling, Michelle has helped many individuals work through grief and difficult emotions. She wrote In Hank’s Heart Forever to provide families with a gentle and meaningful way to talk about pet loss. Her goal is to offer comfort, hope, and reassurance to children who are experiencing the pain of saying goodbye to a beloved pet.
Through this book, Michelle hopes to help families start important conversations, honor their pets’ memories, and remind children that love lasts forever.

Writing comes to Michelle as a secondary process for her life experiences and those she has been experiencing in motherhood. Michelle has more stories to share in the future and is always thinking about new creative ways to touch others’ hearts, even if they live across the world.

In her personal life, Michelle has traveled to a variety of countries, including to areas of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Central America, Europe, Africa and more. Michelle enjoys spending time with her husband, children, and pets. She also loves to garden, cook & bake, write, exercise and spend time outdoors.

About the Book

When Hank loses his beloved cat, Hugo, he feels heartbroken. Through the love and support of his family, Hank learns that even though Hugo is no longer by his side, his love will always stay in his heart. This touching story helps children understand grief, express their emotions, and find comfort in happy memories.
In Hank’s Heart Forever is perfect for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors looking for a gentle way to guide children through pet loss. This beautifully written and illustrated book provides a safe space for children to explore their emotions and feel supported during difficult times.
A must-have for any family who has loved and lost a pet.