After missing the last three games while on a brief leave of absence, Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno returned to the team for practice at Fifth Third Arena on Monday morning.
The Blackhawks announced that Foligno was taking a leave of absence last Wednesday while his 12-year-old daughter, Milana, needed to undergo a follow-up surgery related to her congenital heart disease.
Foligno provided a very positive update on Milana’s status on Monday, while also showing his gratitude to everyone who offered support during a difficult time for his family.
“I’m happy to report that Milana’s home now and doing well,” Foligno said. “She’s probably the one who gives us the most strength with the way she’s handled this adversity. It’s impressive for a 12-year-old girl to handle it face-on.”
“Our family is so humbled and appreciative for all the support and love.”
Nick Foligno shares a positive update on his daughter Milana following her heart surgery: pic.twitter.com/sgmQHFkeNu
— Blackhawks on CHSN (@CHSN_Blackhawks) October 20, 2025
“It’s been obviously very stressful, but we found a lot of comfort in the support of the hockey community, fans, old teammates, and my second family here [with the Hawks],” said Foligno. “It’s amazing how when you go through a hard time, everyone bands together to send you a ton of support and love and prayers, and it was felt by our family. We appreciate it so much.”
First and foremost, it’s tremendous to hear that Milana is recovering well from her latest procedure. Milana, who is the oldest of Foligno’s three children, was born in 2013 with a congenital heart disease and underwent an experimental surgery at just three weeks old. She also had a valve-replacement procedure after being diagnosed with endocarditis in November 2018.
Nick and his wife, Janelle, have shared some of Milana’s story on The Heart’s Playbook, a foundation they run that raises awareness for children with heart defects. Definitely check it out if you haven’t yet, Blackhawks fans.
Foligno, 37, was named the 36th captain in the Blackhawks’ franchise history on Sept. 18, 2024, becoming the first player to don the “C” since Jonathan Toews’ departure. He’s been a spectacular leader since stepping into the role, both on and off the ice.
An example of Foligno’s off-ice mentorship came this past summer, when he hosted several Blackhawks’ youngsters, including Frank Nazar, Wyatt Kaiser, and Colton Dach, in his hometown of Sudbury, Ontario. The boys spent a week with Foligno and his family, further growing their relationship ahead of the crucial season for the team.
In his first four games of the 2025-26 campaign, Foligno has recorded two assists while skating mostly on the team’s fourth line. The 19-year NHL veteran has played in 1,237 career games and is entering the final year of his current contract with the Blackhawks.
“Great to have him back,” Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill said. “He’s our leader, so you want that presence in your locker room, and I think he brings good energy, so it was great to have him back and great that, considering the situation, everything went pretty good; went really good. Happy that that was the case and feel good for their family that it went as best as it could.”
The Blackhawks return to action against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday, and the hope is that Foligno will be able to rejoin the lineup.
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