The Pulse of Radio reports that NINE INCH NAILS frontman Trent Reznor has been the recipient of acclaim from members of New York's government for his efforts to raise money for Eric De La Cruz, a 27-year-old Nevada man with no insurance in need of a heart transplant. According to RollingStone.com, New York Senator Charles Schumer and Governor David Patterson wrote a letter and proclamation thanking Reznor for his work on the campaign, which raised almost a million dollars for De La Cruz. The letters from Schumer and Patterson, along with letters from several other New York government officials, were given to Reznor last month when NIN played in Wantagh, New York.

According to the NIN Hotline, fan Mike Caplice surprised Reznor with the letters backstage. Caplice wrote in an email, "I wanted the entire NIN community to see that their efforts have been recognized by all levels of government. I'm an 18-year fan of the band who has two parents with cancer, and have seen just how flawed the U.S. health care system is. I thought this was a really special moment for all of us who have seen the band and the community evolve over the years into a really positive and powerful force."

Reznor and tourmates JANE'S ADDICTION raised the money by offering a variety of deluxe VIP packages to fans attending their concerts. The packages included meetings with the bands, chances to watch soundchecks and other incentives.

De La Cruz sadly passed away on July 4. Click here for to read a letter from his sister Veronica.