Lee McDermid, Author at Astray

Lessons in Ignorance from an Aid Worker in Iraq

They are calling for my flight to begin boarding. The little screen spells out Erbil, Iraq, in all capitals. I no longer get nervous before flying to foreign countries; it’s a regular routine of mine now. But this time is different. My stomach is in knots. I scan the line of people. No one else…

ByLee McDermidAugust 19, 2020

Features

The Traveller’s Sacrifice

I just missed another friend’s wedding. A friend I have known since the age of 10. She sent me the invite months ago. Absolutely no pressure if you’re not, but do you think you’ll be in Australia in June? We have booked the date and I would love you to be there. When she asked,…

ByLee McDermidAugust 14, 2018

Yarns

My Egyptian Dentist

I remember those little details of our first meeting so clearly. The way he stood over our little group, a mix of misfit travellers and local Egyptians. I remember first taking in his tall, lean body, long, wild hair and straight, perfectly white teeth and thinking he was the most beautiful human I had ever…

ByLee McDermidJune 14, 2018

Yarns

A Month at Moria Refugee Camp

“They put you on a night for your second shift? Bit harsh, but don’t worry: nights are generally quiet. Mostly we sleep unless someone comes knocking”. Moria Refugee Camp is situated on the Greek island of Lesvos, the closest European island from Turkey. It’s the biggest camp on the island, and an estimated 6000 asylum…

ByLee McDermidMay 16, 2018