Losing weight is tough. So often people try and fail — and try again. But 2018 introduced us to people who really understood that losing weight and being healthy involves a lifestyle change more than a fad diet. They’ve shared a lot about what being healthy means and we’ve been wowed by their transformations. Combined, they’ve lost a whopping 1,382 pounds. Here are the 10 most inspiring weight-loss stories from 2018.

Kevin Gendreau

As Dr. Kevin Gendreau watched his sister die of cancer, he looked at himself. At the time, he was 300 pounds at 5 feet 9 inches tall. He realized his sister had no choice when it came to her health, but he did. He started intermittent fasting and eating lean protein, vegetables, fruits and low-fat dairy. In just 18 months, he lost 125 pounds.“I am shocked it works. There is always a new diet but this is very medically sound, which is why I loved it,” he told TODAY.

Since lodiabetes. CourtesyKevin Gendreau has transformed his health. He no longer needs medication for high blood pressure and cholesterol and reversed his diabetes.Courtesy Kevin GendreauGendreau, a primary care doctor, has maintained a weight of 175 pounds. About 25 percent of his practice is focused on weight loss. While he still fasts, he allows himself more “cheats” and relaxed his eating habits a bit. Losing weight has transformed more than his looks.“I’ve learned so much about myself,” he said. “I’ve learned that when I put my mind to something and have a good enough reason I can achieve anything. I think my sister would be proud.”