Our Mum, Donna Nelson, was the victim of a romance scam. She was tricked by her online boyfriend into carrying a suitcase into Japan which contained drugs hidden between the outer hard covers.

Our Mum had no knowledge of this, and we maintain that she is the victim of a crime and not a criminal. But a court in Tokyo has found our Mum guilty of drug trafficking and she was convicted in December 2024.

Upon delivering the verdict, the judges referred to her as a "peripheral participant" even though she was not aware of a crime being committed and admitted she is the victim of a romance scam. One of the lead Judges said "Ms Nelson was taken advantage of through her desire to marry the man and there was room for 'sympathy' for what she did."

Via this page, we raised enough funds to assist with travel costs for visits, postage costs for Mum's personal belongings and the fine she received during sentencing.

On the 22nd of October 2026, Mum was brought home via the International Transfer of Prisoners process. This was a joint effort between the Australian, Western Australian and Japanese governments who we are so appreciative to for making this happen. ❤️

Our focus now is Mum's healing, helping to rebuild her confidence and planning her future. She has missed years of pampering so we want to ensure she is treated with getting her hair and nails done plus a spa day upon her release, which the remaining funds on this page will assist with.

Some of you have stated that you want to contribute, so this is the best and easiest way to do so. (This is such a kind gesture btw). 🥰

In closing, we want to say that we appreciate the unbelievable support and well wishes for our Mum from across Australia and the World. It has given her and all of us great comfort but also strength to keep fighting.

🦘❤️ Thank you, love from Donna's girls and whole family.

*Feel free to follow Mum's journey on Instagram and Facebook where we will be posting updates on Mum's situation until she can provide updates herself: https://www.instagram.com/bringdonnahome/profilecard/?igsh=b2xkbGlubWM2Z200 https://www.facebook.com/share/1DV5afE1J7/