I am project manager in clinical research industry (CRO). After earning PhD, I gave up my science dream to take a more stable job. After slowly climbing the ladders, I feel like I finally got a seat at the table. Half the days I like the hustle, but now I miss being creative. I want to take more brainstorming, decision making responsibilities but I don’t see that in the career path for PM. Career path usually goes like this- Sr PM, Director l, Sr Director, and so on. But all do same work.
In short, be honest and open about what happened and be sure to showcase all of the progress that you've made. This will show that you're capable of overcoming any obstacle and that you're ready to take on the challenges of higher education.
Many people have faced difficult circumstances that have prevented them from achieving their best. You can explain your situation honestly and clearly to any potential employers or academic institutions. They will understand that you have faced some challenges, and they will appreciate your determination in seeking to overcome them.
Honesty is the best policy. You can honestly use this turnaround to your advantage because as stated in a comment above, you've shown that you're able to overcome an obstacle and still keep moving forward.
Although that will affect you, for your future university or employer that is not a reason, what I advise you is to do your best from now on and show the reasons why you can be a good student or worker.
It is incredible how delusional we can be when we are in love, we make decisions that can affect our entire future, it's unfortunate, isn't it? I think there is no way to explain that to someone, your GPA is your responsibility, that's what I would answer.
Life will always give you a chance to prove your worth, don't think about that and concentrate on giving your best every time you see an opportunity, and most importantly don't let a relationship come back to affect you in such a way.
First of all, I have a question for you... Have you explained that to an employer or in a university interview? I don't think you should explain that, because it can easily be taken as an excuse for your low GPA.