Betty Schimmel, now in her 70s, was born in Budapest. Before the war, she planned to marry her childhood sweetheart, Richie. But, in 1944, the Nazis sent Betty and her family to a concentration camp in Austria, and they lost contact. She survived, went on to marry and moved to America, but never forgot Richie. Thirty years on, she visited Budapest and met him by chance. To See You Again, Betty's book about the two loves of her life, is currently being made into a movie. She has three children and lives in Arizona.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Health in the family.
What is your greatest fear?
Losing somebody in my family.
With which historical figure do you most identify?
Golda Meir - for what she has accomplished for Israel.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I am too critical.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Gossip.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Buying expensive clothing.
What objects do you always carry with you?
A heart necklace.
Where would you like to live?
By water - Nice or Monaco.
What makes you depressed?
Illness.
What do you most dislike about your appearance?
Being fat.
What is your favourite smell?
Lily of the valley.
What is your favourite building?
Parliament Building in Budapest.
What is your favourite fantasy?
To trek in the Himalayas
Should the Royal Family be scrapped?
No.
Do you believe in capital punishment?
Yes.
For what cause would you die?
To save my children.
Do you believe in monogamy?
Yes.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My husband.
What is your greatest regret?
That I had no schooling.
How do you relax?
When I paint.
What would your motto be?
Live and let live.
Do you believe in life after death?
No.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a decent person.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Live one day at a time.
