Kat, this is all such positive news! (except the bit about the tendon). So glad you've been able to take the time to let things heal, I wish I had that superpower. I might be getting orthotics tomorrow, too - I'm seeing the orthopedist and he thinks they might be able to help me. Fingers crossed.
I highly recommend Stride Custom Orthotics in Middlebury, CT. They saved my feet after other custom makers failed. It actually took a couple of iterations (I apparently have very weird feet), but once I showed up at their office in person rather than as a pair of disembodied molds, they got me fixed up.
This after a sports med doctor told me my feet would probably continue to deteriorate until I eventually would not be able to run at all. With the orthotics my feet have actually gotten progressively better each of the last few years.
I talked briefly with a young woman at the gym who had the surgery I think you are referring to. She also had been told that the outcomes weren't very good, but was desperate with her kneecap dislocating often. She was pleased so far, but then wasn't trying to be an athlete.
I'm glad you are now able to try running, that's great--just keep doing your exercises.