Yes, I believe that a story paired with an emotional reaction can trigger change. I won't go so far as to say I feel I'm the one who "defeated the zombies, aliens, or serial killer" at all, but moreso, I felt an emotional resonance with the plight of a character or felt some sort of kinship or connection, and that it sparked a powerful realization for me. I really see it as a fundamental everyday process though. Human beings are storytellers. As we exchange our stories, to varying degrees, we influence others in sooooo many small and large ways. Therapists, teachers and yes, forum posters have done this for me.