Well-known photographer praises 'outstanding care' at Causeway Hospital after health scare

Well-known photographer Kevin McAuley has paid tribute to the outstanding care he has received from the NHS and staff at Causeway Hospital following a recent health scare.

Kevin was admitted to hospital earlier this week after suffering a severe allergic reaction during a routine CT scan, it is believed.

While initial concern spread locally, with rumours suggesting he had suffered a stroke or heart attack, Kevin has been keen to reassure everyone that this was not the case.

“Thankfully, it wasn’t anything like that,” he said.

“What happened was a reaction to the dye during a scan, and it brought on quite serious symptoms very quickly - vision problems, hearing issues, swelling and a major rash.”

Kevin was treated initially in the Emergency Department before being transferred to a surgical ward.

He has been full of praise for the care he has received throughout.

“The service here is second to none. I genuinely cannot speak highly enough of every single member of staff—from the doctors and nurses to the auxiliaries and support teams. The level of care, attention and professionalism is exceptional.”

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This is not Kevin’s first experience of the hospital’s life-saving work.

“I’ve been here before with serious health issues, including blood poisoning, and they’ve saved my life on two occasions. That’s something you never forget.”

Despite the pressures facing health services, Kevin says the staff continue to go above and beyond—not just medically, but personally.

“There’s always time for a bit of chat and a bit of craic with the nurses and that makes a huge difference when you’re a patient. It lifts your spirits and helps the days go in quicker. They are incredibly attentive and genuinely caring.”

He also highlighted the flexibility and understanding shown by staff towards his family.

“They were very accommodating, especially when it comes to visitors. That support means a lot.”

Kevin paid particular thanks to one doctor from the medical team who helped stabilise his condition.

“One of the doctors here has been absolutely first-class in getting things under control. I’m very grateful for that.”

Now on the mend, Kevin plans to take things easy for a while.

The photography business he established over many years continues under the guidance of his son.

The McAuley Multimedia business is now led by his son Steven, who has built on his father’s experience to continue providing press, PR and commercial photography services across Northern Ireland.

“Steven  is doing a fantastic job and keeping everything running smoothly,” Kevin said.

“He has taken the business forward and I’m very proud of what he’s doing.”

Kevin added that while he still takes a close interest in the business, his role is now more supportive.

“I’m not actively involved as I once was, but I still enjoy keeping my hand in and offering support and advice where I can. It keeps my mind busy, which is important.”

He also took the opportunity to thank those he has worked with over the years.

“I’m very grateful for the support I’ve received over many years from clients, colleagues, public relations teams and organisations right across Northern Ireland. That support has meant a great deal to me.”

He also expressed his appreciation to his wife.

“Tracey has been incredible through all of this. The support she’s given me has meant everything, she isn’t keen on hospitals but over rides that when it comes to care and she like myself is so supportive of the service given to me by Causeway Hospital.”

Kevin’s message is clear - amid ongoing challenges in healthcare, the service provided locally deserves recognition.

“People are quick to criticise, but from my experience, the care at Causeway Hospital is absolutely first-class. We are very fortunate to have it.”