While the X-Files movie didn't take the US box office by storm it has proved hugely inspirational to one fan.
Kathy Green, 51, of San Diego, who was born with arthrogryposis, a rare neurological disorder that causes joint contractions and muscle weakness, says Gillian Anderson, who reprises her FBI agent Scully role in the film, has given her "life affirming courage". And the die-hard X-Files fan used crutches to walk to the cinema on Friday to watch the movie version of her favourite show.
“The walk (to the cinema) will be the culmination of where I’ve been headed the last few years,” Green told the Los Angeles Times. “Gillian’s short like me, but she’s so strong, and the way she plays Scully gave me the inspiration to get out of bed and live life. I was isolated and frightened, and she pulled me up.”
Due to the disease, Green’s bones and joints did not develop properly and she stands at four-feet, six inches tall. Back and spine problems also make it difficult for her to get around and her problems were compounded a few years ago by a fall, causing even more damage, leading to increased medication and depression.
“I didn’t want to do anything, I couldn’t do anything,” Green said.
She then discovered the X-Files and Anderson caught her eye in particular.
“Here was this small woman taking on the bad guys, so strong and full of life,” Green said. “I feel that so much of what’s inside of Gillian and Scully is inside of me. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her. When she was running, I was right there, running with her.”
Green bought the entire series on DVD earlier this year and had been eagerly looking forward to film.
“This movie has given her something to look forward to,” said Green’s niece, Tiffany Evans. “She’s taken the initiative to do a lot of things she hadn’t done before. It’s truly remarkable.”