MARYSVILLE – Sharon Desmond has been in a wheelchair since having a stroke 10 years ago.

She can get around her modular home fine, but going outside was another story. Someone would have to carry her and the wheelchair down the steps.

Now, she can have a bit more independence.

Thanks to the Master Builder’s Association Annual Rampathon event Friday, Desmond now has the potential to be outdoors more.

Ryan Roehl, David Rose, Brian Thompson and Dez Ritcheson of Gamut360 Holdings built a ramp for her. Actually, it was more than a ramp. The incline was so steep they built a ramp, a landing as it goes around a corner of the house, and then another ramp to street level.

Desmond’s daughter, Kim Mantella of Edmonds, got her mom on the list for the free materials and labor provided by Gamut.

“It’s wonderful,” Desmond said.

Rose added, “It rained on us last year.”

Desmond is one of 14 Snohomish County residents who will receive free wheelchair ramps during the rampathon.

Association members, local builders and volunteers will build the free ramps for those in need. Since 1993, more than 440 ramps have been built and $1.7 million of in-kind donations provided.