What an incredible story and thank you for sharing. As a former 800 meter runner myself who PR'd at 1:56 (albeit almost in a different century and two broken legs ago), the focus of track and sports, in general, had been about results first and everything else second. It was only after my playing days passed that I realized the most valuable lessons I took from athletics were ones like you hinted at in the article, including pushing beyond one's comfort zone, challenging oneself, and focusing on winning one's own race.
Looking forward to your future posts!