May 22, 2009 14:59

Nine Inch Nails fans raise thousands for heart transplant

Trent Reznor asked fans to donate to a worthy cause

Nine Inch Nails fans have pledged over $260,000 (£164,000) in the space of two days to give to a man in need of a heart transplant.

Eric De La Cruz, 27, is in urgent need of a transplant, but is unable to get medical insurance. His family are also struggling to raise the estimated $780,000 (£491,000) to complete the operation.

After hearing about De La Cruz's dilemma through US TV, Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor decided to incorporate a special donation page on the band's official website, Nin.com, offering fans incentives to donate.

Reznor Tweeted from his Twitter page, Twitter.com/trent_reznor, explaining that in the space of two days over $260,000 had been donated.

According to the band's website, fans who donated $1,000 (£630) would be invited to "hang out with us before the NIN/JA (the Nine Inch Nails and Jane's Addiction tour taking place in the USA) show of your choice.

"You and a guest can watch soundcheck, eat dinner backstage with us, take pics/get autographs and watch the show from the side of the stage if you'd like."

Fans who donate $300 (£189) get to watch a soundcheck session and meet the band.