NHL Star Nick Foligno Takes Leave of Absence for Daughter’s Heart Surgery
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NHL star Nick Foligno, currently playing for the Chicago Blackhawks, has made the difficult decision to take a leave of absence from the team as his 12-year-old daughter, Milana, undergoes heart surgery.
Milana was born with a congenital heart disease and has already undergone two valve-replacement surgeries, the first of which was performed when she was only three weeks old. In addition, she was diagnosed with endocarditis in 2018, a serious condition that affects the heart valves and chambers.
Foligno and his wife Janelle have been actively involved in raising awareness about heart-related issues and are ambassadors for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. The couple even co-authored a book titled “Dear Heart: A letter to my special heart” based on their experiences with Milana’s health challenges.
The Blackhawks released a statement expressing their full support for Foligno’s decision to prioritize his family during this challenging time. They announced that he will be taking a temporary break from the team as his daughter undergoes follow-up surgery related to her heart condition.
Milana’s 12th birthday was celebrated just before this latest surgery, highlighting the ongoing struggles the family faces with her health. Despite the difficulties, Foligno and Janelle have remained strong advocates for heart health awareness and continue to inspire others with their resilience.
In a 2020 interview, Janelle shared the inspiration behind their book, revealing that it was born out of a poem she wrote for Milana during her recovery from surgery. The book serves as a charity platform to support various heart-related causes, showcasing the family’s commitment to giving back to the community.
Foligno, who is now in his first season with the Blackhawks and his 20th season in the NHL, has received an outpouring of support and well-wishes from fans and fellow players during this challenging time. The hockey community has rallied around the Foligno family, sending positive thoughts and prayers for Milana’s recovery.
As the Foligno family navigates this difficult chapter, their strength and courage serve as a reminder of the power of family and resilience in the face of adversity. The support they have received from the hockey community and beyond reflects the profound impact their story has had on so many lives.