Born and raised in a rural English setting, Vivien Gurfein trained as a nurse during WWII, treating wounded troops and civilian casualties. Married, and with only her child, she arrived in America, where she entered the competitive arena of modeling in New York City, before resuming her nursing career. Her life has been filled with personal writings, acting and poetry, as well as being deeply involved in many charitable works and voluntary endeavors. As a prolific artist, she has taught interior design, while conducting professional art restorations.