None of us can fail to be moved by the horrible stories of refugees fleeing persecution and war torn backgrounds, travelling thousands of miles trying to reach Europe. For those fleeing Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq, many are smuggled through Turkey and attempt to reach Greece, risking the perilous journey across the Aegean Sea, with many not surviving the ordeal. The first port of call and chance for aid in the Aegean is the island of Chios, where the Chios Eastern Shore Rescue Team give immediate aid and shelter to those who make the crossing. Arriving hungry, cold, wet and frightened of what their uncertain future holds, the CESRT give vital aid to these refugees, as they join the 2500 refugees who already live in the camp on the island. I am spending a month with the CERST as an unpaid volunteer, with all donations ensuring that the CESRT can continue to keep refugees safe and healthy as they seek asylum in Europe.