Non traditional Applicant

Hi everyone,
I've been seriously considering the PA route and would appreciate some advice from current PAs, PA students, or anyone who's been on a similar path.
My background is a little unconventional. I have a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science/Kinesiology and currently work as a Histotechnologist (HTL). Over the years, I've developed a passion for diagnostics, pathology, disease processes, and understanding how laboratory medicine guides patient care.
What draws me to the PA profession is the opportunity to combine that diagnostic foundation with direct patient care. My goal is to become a well-rounded provider who understands both the science behind diagnosis and the human side of medicine.
I'm also passionate about serving Hispanic and underserved communities, where I feel I could make a meaningful impact through prevention, education, early diagnosis, and treatment.
One challenge is my academic history. As a first-generation college student, I struggled early on because I didn't really know how to navigate college. I was academically suspended at one point, but eventually returned and finished my bachelor's degree with a 2.8 GPA. While I'm proud that I finished, I know that GPA puts me at a disadvantage.
Since graduating, I've matured a lot, built a healthcare career, earned my HTL certification, and become much more disciplined and focused. I'm also considering working as an Exercise Physiologist to gain additional direct patient care experience and strengthen a future PA application.
On top of all that, I'm a married father of three, working full-time, so there are definitely days when I feel like this goal is way over my head. But I also feel a strong calling toward the profession, and of all the healthcare careers I've explored, PA seems to make the most sense for my life, interests, and long-term goals.
A few questions:
Does the PA profession sound like a good fit for someone with my interests and background?
Would Exercise Physiology be valuable PCE?
Has anyone been accepted with a lower undergraduate GPA after demonstrating growth and strong healthcare experience?
What would you recommend I do to improve my academic competitiveness?
Any advice for balancing PA school aspirations with a spouse, kids, and a full-time job?
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I truly appreciate any advice, encouragement, or reality checks you have to share. Knowing there are others who have walked a similar path would mean a lot.