Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno takes time off to be with daughter during heart surgery procedure

Chicago Blackhawks Captain Nick Foligno will take a brief leave of absence to be with his family while his daughter undergoes heart surgery, the team announced Wednesday.

Foligno, in his third season with the Original Six franchise, will be with his 12-year-old daughter, Milana, as she undergoes “follow-up surgery.” It was not immediately clear when nhl The veteran is expected to return.

Chicago Blackhawks forward Nick Foligno (17) follows the play against the Minnesota Wild during the third period at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, Minnesota, on September 28, 2025. (Nick Wosika/Image Images)

“Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno will take a brief leave of absence while his daughter undergoes follow-up surgery related to her. congenital heart disease. “Neither Nick nor the Blackhawks will have any further comment at this time,” the team’s statement read.

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Milana, the eldest of Foligno’s three children with his wife Janelle, was born with a congenital heart defect. According NHL.comhad his first heart surgery at 3 weeks old. He has since undergone additional procedures, including a valve replacement in 2018.

“He brings a lot to the table. He’s a great, elite leader. He’s an extension of the coaching staff,” coach Jeff Blashill said of Foligno.

Chicago Blackhawks left wing Nick Foligno (17) warms up before a game against the Seattle Kraken at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois on March 18, 2025. (Talia Sprague/Image Images)

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“And now I think we have other guys in the room that can help get him back. It’s like if he’s injured, the next guy has to do the job.”

Foligno’s absence comes amid a 2-5-0 start for the Blackhawks. He has no goals and two assists, and was absent in Wednesday night’s 8-3 win over the St. Louis Blues.

Chicago Blackhawks left wing Nick Foligno (17) and Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Kevin Hayes (13) battle for control of the puck during the second period at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, on April 6, 2025. (Talia Sprague/Image Images)

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The News contributed to this report.

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