Well-known Ballycastle photographer praises staff at Coleraine's Causeway Hospital following health scare

Kevin McAuley was admitted to hospital earlier this week after suffering what is believed to have been a severe allergic reaction during a routine CT scan.

“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,” said Kevin.

Initially treated in the Emergency Department, Kevin was transferred to a surgical ward, where he continues to recover.

And the lensman 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.”

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.”

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 expects to remain in hospital for a number of days yet, but is making steady progress.

“I’ll hopefully be home soon, but I’ll be taking things easy for a while," added Kevin whose NI-wide press and PR photography business is known throughout Northern Ireland.

The McAuley Multimedia business is now led by his son Steven: “Steven is doing a fantastic job and keeping everything running smoothly.”