Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno is stepping away from the team to support his 12-year-old daughter, Milana, as she undergoes a crucial follow-up surgery for her congenital heart disease. This personal family matter underscores a profound moment for the Foligno family and the Chicago organization, as the hockey world extends its full support.
In a statement that resonated deeply throughout the hockey community, the Chicago Blackhawks announced that their captain, Nick Foligno, will be taking a brief leave of absence from the team. The reason is profoundly personal and heartfelt: his daughter, Milana Foligno, is scheduled to undergo a follow-up surgery related to her congenital heart disease. This news, delivered on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, highlights the unwavering commitment of a father to his family, reminding everyone that some things are indeed bigger than hockey.
The team has stated that neither Nick Foligno nor the Blackhawks will offer further comment at this time, respecting the family’s privacy during this challenging period. However, the collective well-wishes from fans, teammates, and the broader sports world are undeniable.
Milana’s Journey: A Story of Resilience
Milana Foligno, who recently celebrated her 12th birthday, has faced significant health challenges since birth. She was born on October 14, 2013, with a congenital heart defect, a condition where the heart does not fully develop. Her first surgery occurred when she was just three weeks old, a testament to her early battle for health.
Her father, Nick Foligno, then playing for the Columbus Blue Jackets, vividly recalled the moment he learned of her condition. He shared his experience, stating, “When a player has a baby, he comes back to the locker room, and everyone gives him a big hug. It’s like a new addition to the team family – it’s a beautiful thing.” However, his joy quickly turned to concern upon hearing his daughter had failed her pulse oximeter test, indicating a serious heart issue. This initial period saw Foligno miss a total of nine games for personal reasons related to Milana’s birth and initial care.
Over the years, Milana has undergone multiple surgeries, including the replacement of a heart valve. Despite these significant medical interventions, she continues to live an active life, though constant monitoring remains a part of her routine. Her strength and resilience have been a profound inspiration to her family and to many others touched by her story.
A Captain’s Heart: Leadership Beyond the Ice
At 37 years old, Nick Foligno is not just the Blackhawks’ captain; he is a respected veteran known for his grit, tenacity, and unwavering leadership. In his third season with Chicago, he has already contributed two assists through four games. His career statistics speak volumes, with 599 points (247 goals, 352 assists) recorded over 1,237 career games across five different teams since being drafted by the Ottawa Senators in the first round in 2006. More detailed career statistics can be found on Hockey-Reference.com.
Foligno’s impact on the Blackhawks extends far beyond his offensive contributions. He is a vocal leader in the locker room, a physical presence on the ice, and someone who consistently stands up for his teammates. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, particularly in fierce rivalry games like the upcoming matchup against the St. Louis Blues.
The Heart’s Playbook: A Legacy of Support
Inspired by Milana’s arduous health journey, Nick and his wife, Janelle Foligno, established “The Heart’s Playbook” foundation. This foundation is dedicated to building a supportive community around heart health and actively funding crucial heart research. It serves as a beacon of hope and a resource for families navigating similar challenges.
The foundation’s work emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, ongoing support, and advancements in medical science to improve the lives of children and families affected by congenital heart defects. Fans wishing to learn more or offer support can visit the foundation’s official website at The Heart’s Playbook.
Blackhawks Navigating the Absence
The Blackhawks will be without their captain as they face a demanding schedule. They are set to play the St. Louis Blues tonight, followed by a series of home games. The team’s immediate schedule includes:
- October 17: at home against the Vancouver Canucks
- October 19: at home against the Anaheim Ducks
- October 23: away against the Tampa Bay Lightning
- October 26: at home against the Los Angeles Kings
- October 28: at home against the Ottawa Senators
Following these games, the team embarks on a four-game road trip out west. The duration of Foligno’s leave of absence is currently unknown, and rightly so, as the priority remains with his family. The team will need to collectively step up to fill the void left by his leadership and on-ice presence, especially in critical moments and rivalry matchups where his signature grit is most keenly missed.
The entire hockey community stands united in sending their deepest well-wishes to Nick, Janelle, Milana, and the entire Foligno family during this challenging time. While the focus of the hockey world may shift to the next game, the heartfelt thoughts and prayers remain with Milana for a swift and full recovery.
