Runners and bystanders at a 5K and 10K race in Kennebunk are being credited with saving an elderly man’s life after he collapsed while walking his dog Sunday morning.

Kennebunk Fire and Rescue says the runners and bystanders immediately started performing CPR after determining the man was suffering cardiac arrest.

EMS personnel say that while bystanders continued performing CPR, they witnessed the patient’s implanted cardiac defibrillator deliver a shock in an attempt to restore his heart rhythm.

Kennebunk Fire Rescue was nearby providing public safety coverage for the “Cancer Can Suck a Cactus” 5K and 10K race, and when personnel arrived, the patient remained in cardiac arrest. Crews say they immediately continued CPR and initiated advanced lifesaving interventions.

They say a short time later, the patient regained a pulse and spontaneous circulation.

Kennebunk Fire Rescue says they continued advanced cardiac life support treatment and took the patient to the hospital in Biddeford.

They say the patient was awake and talking upon arrival at the hospital!

Kennebunk Fire and Rescue credited the bystanders who recognized the emergency and began CPR to help save the man’s life.