Nick Foligno, a former forward for the Boston Bruins and current captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, is taking a leave of absence from the team to support his daughter, Milana, as she prepares to undergo follow-up heart surgery. The Blackhawks released a statement confirming that Foligno would be stepping away temporarily to be with his family during this critical time, stating, “Nick, nor the Blackhawks, will have any further comment at this time.”
Milana, who was born in 2013 with a congenital heart defect, has faced multiple health challenges. She previously underwent successful open-heart surgeries in Boston during 2013 and 2018. Foligno has often expressed profound gratitude towards the medical teams at Boston Children’s Hospital and Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus for their care, crediting them with saving his daughter’s life. In 2021, when he signed with the Bruins, he described it as a serendipitous opportunity to return to a city that had a significant impact on his family’s journey.
During his time in Boston, Foligno was enthusiastic about reconnecting with the medical professionals who had helped Milana, highlighting the special bond they had with the city and its people. “We’re really looking forward to that bond that was created,” he stated.
Before his leave, Foligno had recently started the 2024-25 NHL season with the Blackhawks, where he recorded one assist in four games. He initially signed a one-year, $4 million contract with Chicago, followed by a two-year, $9 million extension in January 2024. His leadership as the 36th captain in Blackhawks history has been marked by dedication to the team and community, and his current absence underscores the importance of family during times of medical need.
As the hockey community rallies behind Foligno and his family, there are hopeful sentiments for Milana’s continued recovery. The support from the fans and players alike reflects the compassionate spirit often found within sports organizations during challenging times.