10 Ways Star Trek Changed People's Lives
1. Scotty Saved A Woman's Life
For many people, a favourite TV series or fictional character can be a source of support in challenging times. When Scotty actor James Doohan received a worrying letter from a fan who told him she was was considering suicide, he reached out immediately. He phoned the woman up and told her that he'd like to see her at the next Star Trek convention. When she arrived in Indianapolis, the actor was so deeply concerned for her welfare that he decided to act.
For almost three years, he would invite her to conventions all around the country. They would meet up and Doohan would talk to her about various positive things. When they eventually lost touch, the actor sadly feared the worst.
That was until eight years later when he received a letter in the post, thanking him for what he had done. The fan informed him that she had gone on to successfully graduate with a degree in engineering, thanks to the Enterprise's beloved Chief Engineer.
Doohan later reflected that helping the woman was the best thing he had ever done.