Felix
Hi, Peter here, I live in NYC and donated to my Dad at Columbia Presbyterian 5 years ago. I had a very good experience, I live nearby, a short subway ride to 168th st, easy decision, match, and surgery went well, I was in thursday, home sunday.
My Dr. was Lloyd Ratner (he's awesome and a laparoscopic pioneer), my Dad's surgeon was Ben Samstein......made my wonderful , yet somewhat difficult Dad at ease and that is an easier feat than the transplant I assure you.
I think the pre op, particularly psych stuff is tough on purpose (I felt the same way), especially w/ the psychologist.
Good luck - PS - there a good coffee shop bakery across the st on 168th st
Peter