Events

Presented in conjunction with the American Heart Association

Tobacco use among youth is evolving rapidly—and so must our response. Join us for a powerful community conversation to discuss the issue of youth tobacco and vaping. This event will explore:

• The health impacts of tobacco and nicotine use on young people
• Real-life story from a community activist who has seen the effects firsthand.
• A breakdown of current tobacco products, including the wide variety of vapes and flavored options that are popular among youth.
• Actionable strategies for families and communities to intervene, support prevention, and advocate for healthier environments.

Whether you’re concerned about a loved one, curious about the latest trends, or ready to take action, this conversation is a space to learn, connect, and empower change.

Speakers:
Hao Howie Tran, MD, FACC, FHFSA
Dr. Tran is a board-certified cardiologist specializing in treating advanced heart failure patients. Dr. Tran is the medical director of the Heart Failure Program, and the medical director of the Cardiogenic Shock, Mechanical Circulatory Support, and Left Ventricular Assist Device programs. He specializes in treating complex cases of heart disease, leading to heart transplantation or mechanical circulatory support devices. As an associate professor in the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dr. Tran instructs medical students, residents and fellows at UC San Diego School of Medicine. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in heart failure, left ventricular assist devices, and heart transplantation, as well as review articles, editorials and book chapters. Dr. Tran is a designated fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a fellow of the Heart Failure Society of America. He is the regional president-elect of the American Heart Association for San Diego and Southwest Riverside. He completed medical training in advanced heart failure, mechanical circulatory support and transplant cardiology at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. He completed a general cardiology fellowship, residency and internship at Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. Dr. Tran earned his medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia.

Louise Brandy, MBA
Louise is a seasoned technology executive and “serial volunteer” for the American Heart Association, currently serving as the Giving Society Ambassador for the American Heart Association San Diego & Southwest Riverside, along with being past Chairs for the 2023 Stroke & Heart Walk, and 2025 Go Red For Women Luncheon. She is an inspiring speaker, blending strategic leadership with heartfelt advocacy. Her work is deeply shaped by her marriage to Mycle Brandy, a four-time stroke survivor who walked across America three times to inspire others to keep up with their recovery. Louise joined him for a full marathon, supported him through all of his walks and his support group appearances, all the while caring for him with chronic bronchitis, headaches and failing health, and witnessed the toll of decades of smoking that ultimately led to his death from an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

When: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | Presentation 10-11 AM, Film screening begins 11:30 AM
Where: Grossmont Healthcare District’s Conference Center Auditorium (9001 Wakarusa St. La Mesa, CA)
Contact: 619.825.5010, library@grossmonthealthcare.org, or visit us in person to learn more
Feature film: The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019) PG, 123 minutes

Wellness Wednesdays are GHD-sponsored programs that feature different health topics every month. Wellness Wednesdays are free and open to all community members. Registration is not required. Parking in our lot is limited. Additional parking is available across the street in the Brier Patch Campus lot. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early to get settled and parked, as these are our most popular programs.