1. Despite being sick, he went to work.

1. In spite of the fact that he was sick, he went to work.
Despite being sick, he went to work.
2. Despite the stormy weather, they decided to have an outdoor picnic.
Although the weather was stormy, they decided to have an outdoor picnic.
3. Despite their financial difficulties, they started their own business.
Although they had financial difficulties, they started their own business.
4. Although he lacked formal training, he had a natural talent for painting.
In spite of lacking formal training, he had a natural talent for painting.