NATCHEZ — On Aug. 10, Elliott & Co. Salon, Spa and Dry Bar will open its doors, but the day will be anything but business as usual.

The salon, typically not open on Mondays, will devote the workday to someone special: Claude Michael Fraser Smith.

“All the proceeds from our services that Monday are going to go to him,” Mary Elliott, one of Elliott and Co.’s owners, said.

Smith was born June 1 to Amelia and Blake Smith, who live in Eunice, La. According to the GoFundMe account, set up by Smith’s uncle, Brandon Smith, he was born with the right side of his heart not fully developed.

He also has two heart valves that need to be reversed. Smith had to be airlifted hours after his birth to the Children’s Hospital in New Orleans.

“He is doing better now,” Jessica Cochran, Smith’s aunt, said. “They took him off the ventilator, so he’s breathing on his own now.”

Smith has already been through one surgery, with two more on the way. With bills mounting, Elliott and Co. decided to lend the family a helping hand.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 10, the salon will donate its proceeds for all services towards paying Smith’s medical bills.

Stephanie Elliott, Elliott and Co.’s co-owner, went to school with Blake Smith.

“We were just trying to think of some way to help raise money for them,” Elliott said.

It’s something Elliott feels called to do.

“We just like to be able to help people in our community that are in need,” Elliott said.

Elliott was inspired by a friend who did something similar for a woman who lost her husband. Elliott got into contact with licensed cosmetologists in the area who were willing to donate their time.

Cochran, who usually works at the Riverfront Royale Salon and Spa in Vidalia, will be there on Aug. 10 helping out.

“We’ve all been so grateful for all her help,” Cochran said, referring to Elliott. “She has gone far and beyond to try and help us out.”

Currently, Elliott doesn’t have a specific figure she’s hoping to raise.

“I didn’t put a figure on it. I’m hoping a lot,” Elliott said. “I’m hoping we do really well that day.”

Elliott hopes people are generous with their appointments.

“It’s for a good cause,” Elliott said. “Get your hair done and help someone.”

The event will also have a raffle, with prizes donated by local businesses. Tickets are $1.

Elliott & Co. are taking appointments now. Services cost around $20 up.

To book an appointment, call (601) 653-4149. Smith’s GoFundMe account can be found at gofundme.com/claudemichael.