I agree, use the story in your essay and it will def help. The GPA is low, but collleges may understand. All you can do is try as hard as oyu can in school and try whichever schools your counselor may suggest.
Chance me for UW-Madison please!
http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/what-my-chances/1748756-what-are-my-chances-of-getting-into-uw-madison-any-input-is-welcome.html#latest