Former MTV VJ and Revlon model Karen Duffy, whose career was sidelined when she was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in the mid 90s, is back with a new TV show Sunday, Surprise Vacations, on the Fine Living Network at 8 p.m. ET. Duffy, who shot to fame in the late 80s, hosts the show, which gives deserving people a surprise free vacation. She says the people to be featured have “truly been illuminating the world” with their charity work. Duffy tells our Steve Thompson that she has been filming the show for the past six months while also studying to be a chaplain at the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care. “One of the things we learn is care-taking for the caregiver,” says Duffy, “people who are taking care of a loved one or sick child.” Although Duffy,  48,  has her own illness to deal with — sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease — she says helping others helps her. “My parents have always really led by example, (showing) that the only thing worth doing is what you do for others,” Duffy says. “I think that has really helped me through my hard times. I mean, my life isn’t perfect and I’ve got to deal with this big lump in my head all the time and deal with chronic pain issues, but I’m so grateful for the days that I feel good.” Next up, Duffy has a small role in Wes Anderson's Fantastic Mr. Fox this fall, which — lucky for her — stars a former beau, George Clooney.

Photo courtesy of Fine Living Network